Sandbanks Life May 2026

SANDBANKS LIFE

A BOLD CONTEMPORARY STATEMENT

This striking pair of contemporary homes is defined by strong architectural forms, framed in natural stone and softened with accents. Generous glazing and double-height spaces maximise natural light and connection to the surrounding landscape, while vertical screening adds depth, privacy, and solar control.

The material palette is both refined and timeless, creating a balance between bold design and understated elegance. Set within lush planting, the scheme delivers modern, light-filled living with a strong sense of identity and space.

PROJECT LOCATION: CANFORD CLIFFS, MARTELLO ROAD, POOLE BH13 7HF

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show has long been a showcase for Britain’s finest horticultural talent, and over the years Dorset designers, growers and businesses have enjoyed significant success at the prestigious event. From medal-winning gardens to specialist craftsmanship, Dorset has made a strong contribution to the show’s reputation for creativity and innovation. The show has also provided opportunities for Dorset artisans and independent businesses to reach a national audience. Companies producing outdoor furniture, garden accessories and countryside-inspired products have benefited from the exposure Chelsea offers.

In an architectural landscape increasingly defined by speed and scale, LUSO Architecture stands apart through its commitment to precision, restraint, and care. Based in Canford Cliffs and the New Forest, the practice delivers high-end architectural design that is quietly confident, seamlessly executed and held to the highest standard. Each project reflects not only technical mastery, but a thoughtful understanding of place, proportion, and longevity.

As the South Coast settles into the rhythm of spring, attention turns once again to the River Hamble - where, each May, a quietly influential showcase brings together some of the most compelling motor yachts on the market. Now in its 13th year, the British Motor Yacht Show returns to Swanwick Marina, Premier Marinas’ flagship location for motor yachts, from 14–17 May 2026 with what is arguably its most accomplished line-up to date. For those with an eye on the season ahead - whether upgrading, refining or simply observing - it offers a rare opportunity to step aboard and compare a carefully curated selection of yachts in one place.

LINDA MARGARET, EDITOR

EDITOR LINDA MARGARET

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT KATIE MILLER

SUB EDITOR NICHOLAS PETER

FASHION EDITOR LARA ACCISON

DESIGN & PRODUCTION LISA WADE

DIGITAL & PROJECT MANAGER CHAMINDA JONES

SOCIAL MEDIA JESSICA PIKE

SENIOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER LOUISA CLOVER

ACCOUNT MANAGERS NICOLA DREW, LISA WESTERMAN, ANITA HILL

COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER EMILY SMITH

ACCOUNTS TRACEY HALLS, ANDREE GEORGIOU

DIRECTORS RORY SMITH, PATRICK SMITH

PUBLISHED BY

FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD 0844 800 8439

{ EVENTS }

The Calendar

23-24 MAY

ABOVE

14-17 MAY

THE BRITISH MOTOR YACHT SHOW

Now in its 13th year, the British Motor Yacht Show returns to Swanwick Marina, Premier Marinas’ flagship location for motor yachts, from 14–17 May 2026 with what is arguably its most accomplished line-up to date. For those with an eye on the season ahead - whether upgrading, refining or simply observing - it offers a rare opportunity to step aboard and compare a carefully curated selection of yachts in one place. Swanwick Marina, Swanwick Shore Road, Swanwick, Southampton SO31 1ZL

Abbotsbury Swannery Food & Craft Fair Embark on a swan-tastic adventure at Abbotsbury Swannery over the May Bank Holiday weekend! Tickle your taste buds at the Dorset Food and Drink curated food & craft stalls, and don’t miss out on see the new fluffy cygnets of 2026! New Barn Road, Abbotsbury, nr Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 4JG

27-28 JUNE

20 Wicket Road - Open Garden for NGS

Built around a modern terrace, this small suburban garden sits on an awkward shaped plot, over a bed of clay. Set down from its neighbours, it developed a habit of flooding. But you’d never know. ‘Borrow, hint, reveal, distract, attract, conceal’ the design uses every trick in the gardening handbook to create a truly memorable space.

20 Wicket Road, Bournemouth, Dorset BH10 5LT

24-28 MAY

GO WILD! At Lulworth Castle

Visit and enjoy our animal and critter themed trails, lawn games, hunts & crafts all included in the usual admission price. Spend the day exploring the Castle, climb the tower, visit our Peacock Park woodland playground and enjoy some tea and cake in the Castle Tearoom.

Lulworth Castle & Park, East Lulworth, Wareham, BH20 5QS

16 MAY

New Forest Ukulele Festival

Come along and join in with the playing, usually 100 or more Ukuleles. You can also enter your ukulele group to perform onstage. Full lighting and PA system, Bass amp available. Groups from around the South Coast, Bristol, Winchester, and Portsmouth take part in this annual event.

Memorial Centre, Whitefield Road, New Milton, Hants, Hampshire BH25 6DE

14 JUNE

Gasper Cottage - Open Garden for NGS

Two acre garden, with stunning rural views. Luxurious mixed planting of perennials and shrubs with numerous hardy and tender annuals. Orchard embedded in a forest garden with a wildlife pond and model steam powered railway. Artist’s studio surrounded by colour balanced planting and formal pond. Several seating areas. Gasper Cottage, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 6PY

6 JUNE

NIGHT WILDLIFE AND NIGHTJAR GUIDED WALK WITH SUPPER AT RSPB ARNE

An exclusive opportunity to see and listen for the iconic ‘churring’ Nightjar. A nocturnal bird perfectly adapted to hunt for it’s insect prey over the heath at night and stay hidden during daylight hours. Nightjars are associated with folklore and tall tales, due to their nocturnal habits – join us to find out more about these mythical birds from Africa! We will also keep an eye, or ear out for other nocturnal wildlife at home on the reserve, such as foxes, deer and bats.

RSPB Arne, Arne Road, Arne, Wareham, Dorset BH20 5BJ

16 MAY

NEW FOREST BEAD FAIR AT BROCKENHURST - FREE ENTRY & REFRESHMENTS!

Beads and pearls for the home jewellery maker. Many new semi precious beads just imported. Semi precious beads by MrBead and seed beads and findings by Southampton Bead Shop. A charming old-world village in the heart of the New Forest Brockenhurst Village Hall, Brockenhurst, Highwood Road, Hampshire SO42 7RY

16-17 MAY

CHRISTCHURCH CHEESE & CHILLI FESTIVAL

An array of lovely cheese & chilli available for you to sample and purchase. We are very lucky to be supported by some of the UK’s leading growers, makers and manufacturers of cheese and chilli related products. It’s a chance to come and try something new and learn something about these fantastic products. Live music, cooking demos, entertainers and more!

Parley Lane, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 6AD

26 JUNE LEGENDS OF MOTOWN LIVE AT CHARLTON

Legends of Motown is a high energy tribute show jam packed with all of Motown’s biggest hits, with stunning vocals and amazing live band, celebrating the music of the iconic and timeless Motown era.

Charlton Down Village Hall, Sherren Avenue, Charlton Down, Dorchester, Dorset DT2 9UA

The Calendar

23-31 MAY

6 JUNE

LET’S GO FLY - DORCHESTER KITE FESTIVAL

A new festival is coming to Dorchester. Let’s Go Fly! Kite Festival is being hosted on The Great Field between 10 am and 4:30 pm. It is being organised by Dorchester Town Council with White Horse Kite Flyers. The Great Field, Dorchester

21 & 28 MAY SUMMER SESSIONS

Enjoy live music as you sail along one of the UK’s most stunning coastlines, soaking up the good vibes, the sea breeze, and the sunset views that make these evenings truly magical. Sip on signature cocktails and chilled drinks from our fully stocked onboard bar, perfectly crafted for sunset lounging. Hungry? Treat yourself to fresh, delicious food available to purchase throughout the trip – because no summer celebration is complete without great flavours to match the mood. Coastal Vibes Cruises, Weymouth Harbour, Dorset, DT4 8ED

25 MAY

SHERBORNE CASTLE COUNTRY FAIR & RARE BREEDS SHOW

The Sherborne Castle Country Fair presents a rich and fun programme of events, country activities, stands and entertainment including one of the largest Rare Breed Shows in the country. For one day each year, one of the finest settings, with its spectacular grounds and lake surrounding Sherborne Castle, is transformed into a fun-packed Country Fair with attractions, entertainment and activities for all the family. Sherborne Castle, Sherborne, DT9 5NR

May Half Term at Farmer Palmers

Farmer Palmer’s have got your sorted during May Half Term with some marvellous activities! As well as our usual timetable of activities including; hand-feeding the sheep and goats, pony grooming, holding a guinea pig, and our cow milking demonstration, we’ve also got the return of our Wet the Western Tractor Trailer ride and our fun Foam Parties!

Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park, Wareham Rd, Organford, Poole BH16 6EU

EVENTS }

The Calendar

23 MAY

Wild wetland bird walk

The island is a haven for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Our guided walks, led by an expert Dorset Wildlife Trust ranger, take you through the island’s beautiful wetlands. Brownsea Lagoon is one of the best birdwatching sites in England.

Brownsea Island, Poole Harbour, Poole, Dorset BH13 7EE

22-24 MAY BOURNEMOUTH 7S FESTIVAL

Join 460+ teams and 30,000 festival-goers for a bank holiday weekend of sport, headline artists, DJs, and unforgettable moments. Chapel Gate, East Parley, Christchurch BH23 6BD

24 MAY

Functional fungi full day workshop: forage, feast & formulas

Deepen your understanding of the vital role fungi play in our ecosystems, gain practical skills you can use at home.

Happy River Retreat, Bere Road, Dorset BH20 7PA

18 & 25 MAY

SUNSET FISH AND CHIPS CRUISE

Bennett’s Fish and Chips included in ticket price. Celebrate the Summer by setting sail on our relaxing 3-hour Fish and Chips Cruise, the perfect way to enjoy the Jurassic Coast at golden hour with family and friends. Coastal Vibes Cruises, Weymouth Harbour, Dorset, DT4 8ED

23 MAY - 7 JUNE

PURBECK ART WEEKS FESTIVAL

Across Purbeck open studios, concerts, workshops and a talk are on offer showcasing exceptional local and international talent. Twoo inspiring weeks of creativity, performance and discovery across Purbeck. From world-class concerts to stunning exhibitions and open studios, a celebration of art, music and community. Venues across Purbeck

REFINED ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN WITH MEDITERRANEAN ROOTS

In an architectural landscape increasingly defined by speed and scale, LUSO Architecture stands apart through its commitment to precision, restraint, and care. Based in Canford Cliffs and the New Forest, the practice delivers high-end architectural design that is quietly confident, seamlessly executed and held to the highest standard. Each project reflects not only technical mastery, but a thoughtful understanding of place, proportion, and longevity.

LUSO Architecture was established from the foundations of AG Design (ArchiGold Design Ltd), evolving into a practice with a clearer identity and purposeful direction. This transition represents more than a rebrand, it marks values and design philosophy. LUSO Architecture today is defined by its clarity of vision, one that balances refined contemporary architecture with a deep respect for context, craftsmanship, and collaboration.

Operating from two strategically located studios, Ringwood, serving Dorset and Hampshire, and Canford Cliffs, the practice

is uniquely positioned across both countryside and coast. This dual presence allows the team to engage meaningfully with a diverse range of projects, from sensitive rural developments to bespoke coastal homes. Ensuring a tailored approach that responds to both landscape and lifestyle.

The opening of the Canford Cliffs studio in time for summer marks a natural progression for the practice. Located at the heart of one of the south coast’s most desirable architectural settings, the new office strengthens relationships with Poole-based clients and developers while reinforcing LUSO Architecture’s long-term commitment to the local community. More than a studio, the space is envisioned as an open, welcoming environment, one that encourages dialogue, exchange, and creative exploration. Initiatives such as monthly coffee club events will invite local residents into the studio to discuss planning considerations, design ideas, and architectural concerns, positioning the practice as both a professional resource and an active local participant.

The name “LUSO” itself carries layered meaning. Derived from the Portuguese term associated with Portugal and its culture, the word references Lusitania, the ancient Roman province corresponding to modern-day Portugal. As a prefix, “Luso” signifies a connection to Portuguese heritage, language, and people. This subtle yet meaningful reference speaks to the background of the studio’s director and quietly informs the practice’s identity.

Rather than overt stylistic gestures, this Mediterranean influence emerges through sensibility, an appreciation for light, proportion, texture, and calm. LUSO Architecture’s design language is both restrained and expressive, where contemporary forms sit in quiet dialogue with history. There is a confidence in simplicity, and a belief that architecture should feel grounded rather than imposed, timeless rather than trend-driven.

Collaboration sits at the core of the practice. LUSO Architecture maintains an ongoing commitment to working alongside trusted local specialist companies, from consultants to craftspeople, ensuring that every project is cohesive from concept to completion. This collaborative ethos not only elevates the quality of the finished work

but also strengthens relationships within the local construction and design community.

With over 15 years of experience in the local area, the team combines creative vision with rigorous technical expertise. Clients are guided through every stage of the architectural journey, from early feasibility and concept design through planning, technical detailing, and delivery on site. This holistic approach ensures clarity, consistency, and confidence throughout the process.

At the heart of every LUSO Architecture project lies an uncompromising attention to detail. Refined architectural concepts are underpinned by meticulously crafted technical drawing packages, ensuring that design intent is fully realised in built form. Precision is not an afterthought, it is fundamental to how the practice operates.

LUSO Architecture represents a considered approach to high-end design, rooted in heritage, shaped by place, and delivered with care. It is architecture that values quality over quantity, collaboration over isolation, and detail over display, redefining refinement along the south coast and beyond. lusoarchitecture.co.uk

THE DORSET SEASON: A Masterclass in the Long Lunch

Summer along the River Frome unfolds at a deliberately unhurried pace. At The Priory, lunch takes centre stage as the defining moment of the day. As the gardens come into bloom, the terrace settles into a refined, seasonal rhythm, shaped by a menu that favours simplicity and exceptional produce. Generous cuts, enduring classics, and lighter, more refreshing dishes form the backbone of an offering designed for lingering. The drinks list plays no small part in setting the tone. A crisp rosé or a sharp, seasonal spritz feels particularly fitting when paired with the gentle drift of river traffic beyond the terrace. For the first time, a subtle musical

backdrop accompanies the experience soft enough to never intrude, yet present enough to round out the atmosphere. It is a setting that quietly encourages a second glass, and the easy surrender of any sense of urgency.

This is lunch as it ought to be: indulgent, unhurried, and quietly celebratory. Guests move freely between terrace and four acre riverside gardens, where high standards remain intact but are softened with a distinctly summery touch. With views stretching across the Purbeck landscape, The Priory remains firmly rooted in Wareham’s history while offering a polished escape from the seasonal bustle.

Whether arrived at by chance or careful planning, the invitation is simple, pause, settle in, and stay a while. The terrace awaits. The table, as ever, is yours. priorywareham.co.uk

THE YACHTS DEFINING THE SEASON AHEAD

The British Motor Yacht Show, 14–17 May 2026, Swanwick Marina, River Hamble

As the South Coast settles into the rhythm of spring, attention turns once again to the River Hamble - where, each May, a quietly influential showcase brings together some of the most compelling motor yachts on the market.

Now in its 13th year, the British Motor Yacht Show returns to Swanwick Marina, Premier Marinas’ flagship location for motor yachts, from 14–17 May 2026 with what is arguably its most accomplished line-up to date. For those with an eye on the season ahead - whether upgrading, refining or simply observing - it offers a rare opportunity to step aboard and compare a carefully curated selection of yachts in one place.

A line-up shaped by calibre

What distinguishes the British Motor Yacht Show is not scale, but selection.

Established by Premier Marinas - one of the UK’s leading marina groups - alongside British yacht builders Fairline, Princess Yachts and Sunseeker, the show continues to be defined by the calibre of its participants.

“British Motor Yacht Show has long understood that ownership extends far beyond the vessel itself”

For 2026, the founding brands return with one of their most significant combined displays in recent years. Among the headline moments is the European debut of the new Fairline Targa 47 GT - a contemporary, owner-focused model balancing performance with versatility.

Alongside this, Princess will present an impressive fleet including the groundbreaking Princess X80, a yacht that redefines onboard space through its innovative super flybridge design. Sunseeker’s display is equally compelling, featuring the Manhattan 55, Predator 55 and the striking 82 Ocean - each showcasing the brand’s signature blend of performance, innovation and contemporary styling.

Nearby, the breadth of models on display offers a clear sense of how the market continues to evolve. From sleek sports cruisers to expansive flybridge yachts, the line-up reflects a spectrum of ownership styles - each defined by its own balance of design, performance and onboard living.

A broader perspective on modern yachting

Beyond the founding brands, the 2026 show introduces a deeper and more internationally influenced mix of yachts and builders.

Ancasta returns with one of the most comprehensive multi-brand displays, including Beneteau, Bluegame and Prestige, while Argo Yachting brings together Pardo, Galeon and Saxdor. SE Yachts will present Navan and Delta Powerboats, reflecting the continued demand for Scandinavian performance and design-led innovation.

Across the pontoons, individual yachts begin to tell their own story. The Absolute 52 Fly and Galeon 560 Fly highlight the enduring appeal of flybridge living, while models such as the Pardo 38 and Bavaria SR41 reflect a more relaxed, contemporary approach to coastal cruising. Elsewhere, the Fleming 55 and Van den Hoven Voyager 56 introduce a sense of long-range

capability - yachts designed not just for weekends, but for extended time on the water.

British craftsmanship remains a defining thread, with DALE Motor Yachts, Cockwells and B. Van den Hoven Jachtbouw reinforcing the enduring appeal of bespoke design and meticulous build quality.

Beyond the boats

While the yachts naturally take centre stage, the British Motor Yacht Show has long understood that ownership extends far beyond the vessel itself.

Ashore, the experience is underpinned by Premier Marinas, whose deep operational expertise and network of south coast marinas shape the practical realities of ownership. At Swanwick - widely regarded as its flagship location for motor yachts - visitors can engage directly with the specialists who support every stage of the journey, from finance and insurance through to berthing, maintenance and longterm yacht management.

Returning main sponsor CGI Finance provides tailored finance solutions, while Pelican Insured joins for 2026, reflecting the increasing importance of expert guidance around insurance and longterm protection.

A moment in the season

Positioned at the start of the European boating calendar, the British Motor Yacht Show offers something more nuanced than a traditional event. It is a moment of perspective - a chance to step aboard, compare, and consider what the season ahead might hold.

For those based in Sandbanks and along the South Coast, that opportunity comes with rare convenience. Within easy reach, Swanwick Marina - Premier’s flagship Hamble location - becomes, for four days each May, a discreet meeting point for some of the most respected names in yachting.

The British Motor Yacht Show 14–17 May 2026. Swanwick Marina, River Hamble. Advance registration required at BritishMotorYachtShow.com

PHILIP J LONG: Photography & Visual Creations

Based in Dorset, photographer and visual storyteller Philip J Long brings a distinctive and emotive approach to capturing life’s most memorable moments. With a deeprooted passion for the outdoors, his work is shaped by years spent immersed in nature - drawn to both its quiet stillness and its untamed energy. From the soft light of a forest at dawn to the vibrant rhythm of city streets, Philip’s images reflect a refined understanding of composition, light, and atmosphere.

His creative journey began at a young age, evolving alongside a lifelong love of exploration, adventure and sports. Raised in London, educated at Loughborough University and having attended high school in the United States, Philip developed a broad cultural perspective that continues to inform his visual style. Today, while Dorset remains his base, his work frequently takes him across London and throughout the UK. His photography has been featured in a range of publications, including the renowned Windsurf magazine.

An accomplished sportsman, Philip brings firsthand experience and insight to his dynamic sports photography. Whether capturing the raw power of windsurfing or the precision and elegance of golf, he translates movement and emotion into compelling visual narratives. Alongside this, he has a natural affinity for photographing families and friends, ensuring every portrait is full of life, love, and connection, with a warmth that resonates through each image. This sensitivity extends to all his portrait work, where he effortlessly captures authentic relationships - creating images that feel both natural and deeply personal.

Philip J Long’s work is defined by its energy, sincerity, and attention to detail, offering clients more than just photographs - it offers lasting visual memories. Each image is individually and professionally edited, with a considered approach to composition and finish that ensures every photograph feels distinct and special, making them equally striking across both digital platforms and printed displays. For those looking to document moments worth holding onto, his work stands as a thoughtful and inspiring choice. To learn more or to discuss creating the visuals for the moments you know you’ll never want to forget, visit philipjlong.co.uk.

AWARD WINNING SEAFOOD AND GRILL RESTAURANT

Located in historic area of old town Poole The Guildhall Tavern boasts an entry in the 2026 MICHELEIN Restaurant Guide, 2 AA rosettes for culinary excellence and features in the world’s top 10% restaurants by Trip Advisor.

The Guildhall Tavern has been serving the local community for over twenty years with locally sourced fresh seafood and grills in our elegant dining room. As a privately owned venue we pride ourselves on meeting the most discerning needs of our valued guests and ensure they have a memorable experience when they dine with us.

In addition to our main restaurant our nautically themed Yacht Lounge is now open Thursday-Saturday, 3pm – 11pm where you can enjoy our extensive range of wines by the glass, signature cocktails, premium spirits charcuterire & cheese, Poole Bay oysters and tasty bar snacks.

CANFORD CLIFFS £1,500,000

C“The landscaped front and rear gardens are truly wonderful”

anford Cliffs is such a popular area to live in and often the garden size is a compromise, but not with this 5 bedroom family home!

It is set on a generous 1.25 acre plot, screened from the road and having current plans in place for a 2 storey extension. It has been beautifully updated by the current owners with attention to detail at every turn, offering a peaceful and private setting with many noteworthy features. Set over 2 floors, the home offers a welcoming entrance hall with cloakroom, double reception room, study, kitchen/breakfast room and bedroom with ensuite on the ground floor and 4 bedrooms with an ensuite, family bathroom and separate cloakroom on the first floor. Bedroom 4 has been fitted out as a dressing room with open closet space (and there is a boarded loft with pull down ladder) and excellent range of fitted wardrobes and storage throughout. The landscaped front and rear gardens are truly wonderful.

The home is approached via electric gates and foliage offering huge privacy and a sweeping block paved driveway

leading to the home with extensive parking. The rear garden is fabulous with a large patio, striped lawn and area of more natural woodland to the rear. Offering an irrigation system, ensuring everything is kept hydrated and lush, especially in the warmer months. This 1930’s property has been sympathetically restored over the 20 years of ownership and more recently updated in 2024, blending original features with more modern styling. Offering herringbone flooring with underfloor heating on the ground floor, oak and glass stairway, contemporary radiators, new electrics, log burner, updated kitchen and bathrooms and updated double glazed windows. Plans are available to see the 2 storey extension, which would enlarge the house hugely, giving a new master suite and open plan kitchen family area with utility and boot room.

The area offers easy access to the renowned award-winning Blue Flag beaches which stretch from Bournemouth through to Sandbanks, Parkstone Golf Course which is less than a mile away and the beautiful gardens at Compton Acres. The property is available for £1,500,000 through Hearnes Estate Agents who you can contact on 01202 377377

CANFORD CLIFFS |

£2,250,000

This spacious home offers a splendid private setting on approximately half an acre plot, and has been well maintained yet offers potential for personalisation and extension. The accommodation currently includes a spectacular master suite with two walk-in dressing rooms and a generous en suite five piece bathroom, three further bedrooms and three further bathrooms (two ensuite) three reception rooms an impressive entrance hall, a fully fitted kitchen/Day room plus utility area and triple garage with parking for numerous vehicles behind electronic gates.

LILLIPUT

GUIDE PRICE | £1,000,000 - £1,250,000

A fantastic opportunity to secure a superb plot and position in one of Lilliput’s most sought after locations with harbour views, private slipway access and scope to create a coastal home. In an unbelievably tranquil setting, moments from the harbour, is this charming character detached home, offering 2200 sq ft of versatile accommodation, with potential to enhance both size and views through upperlevel extension and wider remodelling (STPP). The house was modernised around 15 years ago to include the addition of a large garage and art studio, as well as refitting and updating of the property and further offers lounge, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, 3/4 bedrooms, ensuite and bathroom. The garden is south westerly facing with raised patio and a good size lawned area.

PENN

HILL | PRICE £1,100,000

A substantial 1929 detached 6 bedroom, 3 bathroom family home, beautifully presented with many character features and high ceilings throughout. This lovely character property is set on a delightful corner plot accessed via electric gates with a generous driveway providing parking, turning space, garage with electric door and door to the utility room. The accommodation is well planned and offers a fully fitted kitchen/breakfast room leading to a snug/family room which has doors to the rear garden. Added benefits include gas central heating, double glazing, a fully insulated timber shed (ideal for an office) with power and lighting, summerhouse and further shed. It is located just a few hundred yards from the shops and restaurants of Penn Hill

DORSET’S LOVE AFFAIR WITH THE RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show has long been a showcase for Britain’s finest horticultural talent, and over the years Dorset designers, growers and businesses have enjoyed significant success at the prestigious event. From medal-winning gardens to specialist craftsmanship, Dorset has made a strong contribution to the show’s reputation for creativity and innovation.

One of the county’s most notable Chelsea successes came through Dorset-based exhibitors specialising in traditional outdoor living and garden design. Plankbridge, founded near Bridport, became well known at Chelsea for its handcrafted shepherd’s huts, which have appeared in award-winning show gardens and attracted international

attention. Their work helped highlight the growing trend for gardens as places of retreat and wellbeing.

Dorset’s connection with Japanese gardening culture has also featured prominently at Chelsea. Niwaki, based in Shaftesbury, earned praise for bringing high-quality Japanese gardening tools and pruning equipment to British gardeners. Their displays at Chelsea have become popular with both professionals and enthusiasts, reinforcing Dorset’s reputation for specialist horticultural craftsmanship.

In recent years, Chelsea has increasingly focused on sustainability, biodiversity and mental wellbeing, themes reflected in projects supported by Dorset exhibitors and suppliers. Gardens featuring

naturalistic planting, recycled materials and drought-resistant species have regularly received medals and public acclaim. Dorset nurseries and growers have contributed plants and expertise to many of these award-winning displays.

The show has also provided opportunities for Dorset artisans and independent businesses to reach a national audience. Companies producing outdoor furniture, garden accessories and countryside-inspired products have benefited from the exposure Chelsea offers. The county’s rural heritage and strong gardening tradition make it a natural contributor to the event’s celebration of British horticulture.

“The show has also provided opportunities for Dorset artisans and independent businesses to reach a national audience”

luxury garden spaces.

• Backdoorshoes Ltd from Bournemouth, exhibiting outdoor leisure footwear.

• Fantails Garden Furniture from Swanage, showcasing pergolas, seating and wooden garden furniture.

• Tooka from Sherborne, exhibiting homeware and giftware designs.

Across decades of Chelsea Flower Shows, winners and exhibitors connected to Dorset have demonstrated the county’s creativity, craftsmanship and environmental awareness. Whether through medal-winning gardens, innovative outdoor design or specialist gardening products, Dorset continues to play an important role at one of the world’s most famous flower shows.

Several Dorset-based exhibitors and businesses are already confirmed for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026:

• Niwaki from Shaftesbury, returning with its Japanese gardening tools and accessories.

• Plankbridge Ltd near Dorchester, known for handcrafted shepherd’s huts used in

• Dorset water-feature specialists Water Artisans are also involved in several show gardens, creating ponds, streams and water installations.

The 2026 show is also attracting major national names, including David Beckham, who is collaborating with The King’s Foundation and designer Frances Tophill on “The Curious Garden.

Dive into a decade of celebrations at this year’s

LYMINGTON SEAFOOD FESTIVAL

This 10-12th July the Lymington Seafood Festival gets set to celebrate its 10th birthday. The event has grown into one of the south coasts leading food festivals with sell-out crowds sampling delicious seafood, live music, the best local chefs taking to the Chefs Stage and budding cooks getting hands on in the festival cookery school.

There’s a new ‘Shaken & Stirred’ drinks stage with a range of masterclass, tastings and demonstrations from three leading ‘drinks pro’s.’ Festival go’ers can get immersed in craft ale and beer with Melissa Cole. Wine lovers will be taken on a journey of ‘bubbles’ with tastings and tips covering English Sparkling, Crémant, Cava and wines from Australia and South Africa from Helena Nicklin. Or, for something a bit different join Neil Ridley the ‘Crisp Sommelier’ where you’ll enjoy bonkers pairings with your favourite pub snack.

The Chefs Stage and Cookery School will again be hosted by TV foodie Chris Bavin and is set to welcome the best local chefs, led by

Luke Holder, Lime Wood HH&Co alongside Gavin Barnes from the High Street Kitchen, the Montagu Arms, Cambium and Stanwell House.

For budding chefs young and old the cookery school has a range of seafood classes with adult classes culminating in a mini wine pairing. If you really want to test your culinary skills, the ‘Big Careys Cook Off’ will see 8 local cooks battling it out ‘master chef style’ to be crowned the winner.

With around 100 different seafood dishes, you’ll be tucking into scallops, lobster, soft shell crab, mussels or oysters in various ways, cod cheeks, razor clams, seafood tacos, mackerel, king crevettes, surf n’ turf as well street food from across the world from South America to Korea. There’s plenty of cooking over fire with Nordic Smoked Salmon flammlach, monkfish and John Dory dishes taking centre stage.

All set to stunning views across the Solent it’s the perfect place to gather friends us for a local craft beer, rum or gin and dance away to soul, blues, Motown, ska and heaps of pop and rock classics with Friday nights headline tribute Ultimate Coldplay bringing the festival vibes. Tickets are £12. Weekend tickets £30. Visit lymingtonseafoodfestival.co.uk for more.

LOCAL WALK: Abbotsbury to St Catherine’s Chapel Circular, Dorset

For those seeking a Dorset walk rich in history, sweeping countryside views, and a quieter sense of discovery, the circular route from Abbotsbury to St Catherine’s Chapel offers an unforgettable experience. Set in West Dorset, this rewarding trail combines coastal scenery, rolling farmland, and one of the county’s most distinctive hilltop landmarks. Ideal for a half-day outing, it captures the timeless charm of the Dorset landscape. The walk begins in the historic village of Abbotsbury, a place steeped in heritage and surrounded by dramatic natural beauty. Known for its medieval origins, honey-coloured stone cottages, and famous swannery, the village itself is worth lingering in before setting out. From the centre, the route follows gentle lanes and public footpaths that gradually climb towards the ridge above the village.

“The walk begins in the historic village of Abbotsbury, a place steeped in heritage and surrounded by dramatic natural beauty”

As the ascent continues, expansive views begin to unfold across the surrounding countryside. Patchwork fields stretch inland, while to the south lies the shimmering sweep of Chesil Beach and the Fleet Lagoon. This section of the route offers a sense of openness and tranquillity, with skylarks often heard overhead and wildflowers lining the grassy verges during late spring and summer.

Soon, the unmistakable silhouette of St Catherine’s Chapel comes into view. Perched high on a hill overlooking Abbotsbury, this 14th-century chapel is one of Dorset’s most iconic landmarks. Built by monks as a place of pilgrimage and retreat, its isolated setting gives it an atmosphere of quiet reverence. Standing beside its weathered stone walls, walkers are rewarded with panoramic views that rank among the finest in the county.

After taking in the scenery, the circular route continues along the ridgeway before looping back through farmland and peaceful country tracks. This quieter stretch provides a different perspective on the landscape, with glimpses of Abbotsbury nestled below and the coastline beyond. The descent is gentle, leading back towards the village through open meadows and hedgerow-lined paths.

Returning to Abbotsbury, visitors can round off the day with a visit to one of the village’s tea rooms, artisan shops, or historic attractions. The combination of countryside walking, coastal

vistas, and cultural heritage makes this route a perfect example of Dorset at its most captivating.

Highlights Along the Route

• Historic village charm in Abbotsbury

• Panoramic views of Chesil Beach and the Fleet Lagoon

• The striking hilltop landmark of St Catherine’s Chapel

THE DETAILS

Route: Abbotsbury Village > Ridge Path

> St Catherine’s Chapel > Farmland Loop

> Abbotsbury Village

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Start and End Point: Abbotsbury Village Centre

Distance: Approximately 4 miles (6.4 km)

Estimated Time: 2–3 hours

Terrain: Grassy hillsides, country footpaths, farm tracks, and quiet lanes

Best Time to Visit: Spring through autumn for clear views and colourful landscapes

Facilities: Parking, cafés, shops, and public toilets in Abbotsbury

• Rolling Dorset countryside and ridgeway trails

• Abundant birdlife and seasonal wildflowers

• Peaceful farmland paths and open meadows

• Excellent opportunities for photography

The social highlight of Dorset’s summer…

down the temple upon his enemies – and himself – in a moment of unforgettable drama and spectacle.

This epic production promises one of the most spectacular stagings seen outside London.

Performances take place in the 600-seat Coade Theatre at Bryanston. Set within 400 acres of stunning Dorset countryside, where the River Stour meanders on its way towards the sea at Christchurch.

Audiences can enhance their visit with formal five-course Opera Dinners on Thursday and Saturday evenings or, enjoy pre-ordered picnics from the marquee bar. (Afternoon tea is also available for matinée performances, making each visit a special occasion.)

For groups, private pavilions seating six or ten, offer the perfect way to relax and enjoy a quintessential Dorset summer experience with good friends.

dorsetopera.com

The annual Dorset Opera Festival is the place to be seen during the last week of July, as worldclass performers descend on the county to make this much-loved event a true highlight of the cultural calendar.

With spring now in full swing, the team behind Dorset’s most successful summer festival is already hard at work, coordinating designers, set builders and costume makers to bring this year’s productions vividly to life.

Now in its 52nd year, the Festival brings together around 280 participants. These include internationally acclaimed soloists making their British stage debuts; a full professional orchestra, conductors, music staff, plus dedicated production and technical teams. Wardrobe personnel are supported by students from the Arts University Bournemouth, while a team of 70 volunteers ensures everything runs smoothly during rehearsals and front of house.

The chorus of more than 60 singers, drawn from around the world, is already busy preparing the music for this year’s operas: Donizetti’s charming and humorous L’elisir d’amore (The Elixir of Love), and Saint-Saëns’ dramatic biblical epic Samson et Dalila.

The story of Samson is one of legend: a powerful leader whose strength lies in his uncut hair. Betrayed by Delilah, he reveals his secret and is shorn of his locks and blinded while he sleeps. Captured and humiliated, Samson ultimately prays for his power to be returned one final time, resulting in him singlehandedly bringing

CAVALLERIA RUSTICANA – 2025

(PHOTOGRAPHER: JULIAN GUIDERA)

JAIME GROOTE AS THE COUNTESS IN LE NOZZE DI FIGARO, 2023. (PHOTOGRAPHER: JULIAN GUIDERA)

TA fresh approach to funerals

We care for people and planet

he first thing you you’ll notice about Poppy’s is that we don’t look like other funeral directors.

Our friendly orange frontages in Tooting, East Sheen and Raynes Park signal it before you step inside. They’re the start of a story that the rest of your experience with Poppy’s will tell.

Poppy’s is an award-winning independent funeral directors with a fresh approach to funerals.

Poppy’s was founded in 2012 by Poppy Mardall, driven by the belief that funerals could and should be better. 14 years later, Poppy’s supports clients across London and beyond with that same personal, human-centred approach.

We offer

• Traditional burials and cremations with religious/non-religious services

• Direct cremations and burials without a funeral service

• Natural and woodland burials

• Funeral services in alternative venues.

We believe in outstanding care for the living and the dead

Unlike most funeral directors, we provide gentle and natural death care in our own light-filled mortuary in Tooting, Wandsworth. Clients can visit their person in our comfortable Friends and Family Room. You can use this time to help dress your

We are London’s first B Corp funeral director. We try to minimise our environmental impact, and we can help you make more ecofriendly choices if that is important to you – from electric vehicles to sustainably-sourced coffins, natural burial and more.

We can help you explore your own funeral wishes

We offer free, 45-minute My Funeral Wishes consultations in-office, on the phone, or online to assist with planning your own funeral. We can also arrange prepaid funeral plans, which are a way of paying for a funeral in advance.

Whatever stage you are at in planning or arranging a funeral, we’re here to listen and explore how we can support you.

“Poppy’s are such a lovely, caring funeral company. They supported us in our slightly more unusual requests and ensured everything went smoothly. They looked after our mum so well and were very caring in her final journey.” Helen poppysfunerals.co.uk

person, play their favourite music, decorate their coffin – whatever is right for you.

SHAKING UP THE PARTY SCENE

Bringing a touch of glamour into your home with a West End-style cocktail bar experience.

In an era where the most memorable gatherings are increasingly hosted behind closed doors, NeatNights is quietly redefining the art of entertaining. Blending the polish of London’s finest cocktail bars with the warmth of genuine hospitality, the bespoke mobile bar brand is bringing a touch of glamour directly into homes across London and the Home Counties.

Founded by hospitality insider Jimmy Ingram, NeatNights has built its reputation through word-of-mouth among a discerning clientele that includes high-profile names from the worlds of entertainment, sport, and business. Discretion is, after all, part of the service but their reputation travels quickly.

The company specialises in creating beautifully tailored bar experiences for milestone birthdays, weddings, corporate celebrations, and intimate gatherings.

At the heart of the business lies Jimmy’s deep-rooted passion for hospitality. “We host everyone the way we would our own friends and family” he says, “creating the atmosphere for guests to feel relaxed

“Beautifully tailored bar experiences for milestone birthdays, weddings, corporate celebrations, and intimate gatherings”

and at home, while delivering the highest professional standards”.

Every event begins with a conversation about mood, style and budget, allowing the team to design an experience as individual as the host themselves. Clients can choose from over one hundred impeccably balanced cocktails, and alcohol-free creations, to a fully stocked open bar serving champagne and wine, and even a custom-built ice luge.

Flexibility is key, and NeatNights offer a selection of elegant bar set-ups in a variety of finishes to suit parties from 50-300 guests, though the team is just as comfortable transforming a kitchen island or home bar into the evening’s focal point.

For hosts looking to elevate their next celebration, NeatNights offers something truly rare: the atmosphere of your favourite cocktail bar, delivered with the intimacy and ease of entertaining at home.

www.neatnights.london 07827 318 999

Follow on Instagram: @neatnights

Bringing the sophistication of a luxury cocktail bar into your home

From stately homes to skyline terraces and manicured lawns, we create beautifully tailored bar experiences for private events. Founded by an exindustry pro with a flair for flawless service, NeatNights curates every detail — bespoke cocktails, premium spirits, elegant setups, and an exceptional team. From intimate gatherings to 300-guest celebrations, we make hosting effortless, unforgettable - and fun.

FIRST CLASS CHAUFFEURS Your Season, Beautifully Driven

When the English summer unfolds its finest chapters, there is nothing quite like arriving relaxed, refreshed, and ready to enjoy every moment. That is exactly what we do at First Class Chauffeurs – we take care of the journey so you can focus entirely on the occasion.

Royal Ascot is where many of our clients begin the season. We know the routes, the timings, the car parks, and the little details that make the difference – a cool car waiting at the end of a long, sunfilled day, a driver who knows precisely where to be without being told. From there, the summer takes its wonderful course. The Guards Polo Club in Windsor Great Park for a thrilling afternoon of world-

class polo. Wimbledon for the tennis, where navigating SW19 becomes effortless when someone who has done it countless times is behind the wheel. Henley Royal Regatta for a glorious day by the Thames. Glyndebourne for an evening of opera under the Sussex sky. Goodwood, Cowdray Park, Cartier Queen’s Cup – wherever the season takes you, we are there.

Our fleet includes the Rolls-Royce Phantom and Cullinan, Mercedes-Benz Maybach, S-Class, and Range Rover Autobiography – each immaculately presented and stocked with the small comforts that make a real difference: chilled water, a spotless interior, and the kind of calm, quiet atmosphere that lets you gather yourself before you arrive or unwind once you leave.

Our chauffeurs are friendly, professional, and genuinely experienced. They know London inside out and the Home Counties just as well. They are punctual, well-presented, and – perhaps most importantly – they understand when to chat and when to let you enjoy the peace.

Whether it is a single trip to the races or a full season of events, airport transfers, corporate engagements, or a special celebration, we are here to make it seamless and enjoyable. Five stars on Trustpilot from clients who return to us year after year – and that, honestly, is the recommendation we value most.

Book your season with First Class Chauffeurs. We will make every mile a pleasure.

fcchauffeurs.co.uk

There is nothing quite like bringing a new baby home. A family quietly finding its new shape. An older child leaning in wide-eyed, to touch their baby sibling’s face for the first time . It is within this fleeting, deeply personal chapter that Magic Rainbow Photography finds its purpose. Created with a singular vision, that every newborn deserves to be welcomed into the world with beauty and intention, the founder Marta has earned her reputation among London’s most discerning families as the city’s foremost specialist in newborn and early-life portraiture. From Richmond to Highgate, Chelsea to Notting Hill, she has quietly become a first call for parents who understand that some moments, once passed, cannot be retrieved.

Your Home. Your Family. Your Story

Marta brings the art of portraiture directly to you — into your home, your story. There are no unfamiliar surroundings, no unnecessary travel with a days old baby. Instead, a gifted photographer arrives at your door, attuned to the rhythm of your household, ready to find beauty exactly where you are.

“I am not simply taking pictures. I am preserving the very beginning of a new family’s story. It’s photography where people come first. Connection, emotion, warmth”

A Quiet Elegance

The approach at Magic Rainbow Photography is as much about

A PORTRAIT OF BEGINNINGS

atmosphere as artistry. Each session is conceived as an experience in itself, unhurried, sensitive to the rhythms of your newborn, and tailored entirely to the aesthetic sensibilities of your home and family. Beautiful light, hand-selected wraps and props and attention to detail combine to produce images that feel personal and honest. The photo shoot unfolds organically, guided by the baby’s mood. With understated styling and a meticulous eye for detail Marta creates photographs that are timeless rather than trend-led.

From the Very First Chapter

For those expecting their first child, or welcoming a baby sibling into the family, Magic Rainbow Photography also offers maternity photoshoots of equal elegance. These sessions celebrate the extraordinary transformation of pregnancy with the sensitivity and artistry it deserves.

With over 15 years of experience and a portfolio built within some of London’s most discerning households, Marta’s work has become synonymous with trust and discretion. Clients are not simply booking a photoshoot; they are commissioning a visual narrative that celebrates the beginning of a family story with warmth and elegance.

In an age where images are abundant yet often fleeting, there is something profoundly meaningful about investing in photographs created with care and intention. Because while the early days of parenthood pass in a blur, the right images have the power to hold them still. Beautifully and forever. magicrainbowphotography.com

Father’s Day GIFT GUIDE

THE CROFT HOUSE

Celebrate Father’s Day with timeless Scottish knitwear from The Croft House, a certified B Corp. The collection is inspired by heritage designs and Scotland’s rugged landscape. Discover our men’s Shetland jumper for understated style. Crafted in Scotland in 16 colours. This seamless knit features classic saddle shoulders, a refined fit, and supersoft wool, offering warmth and comfort for an everyday essential he’ll wear again and again. Add a thoughtful finishing touch with our wool gloves, hats or indulgent cashmere socks.

thecrofthouse.com 01779 838155

GIVE THE GIFT OF ADVENTURE!

Explore 4x4 provide the ultimate in outdoor activities.

Choose from a range of activities including; 4x4 Off Road Driving, Clay Pigeon Shooting, Weapons through the Ages, Archery, Crossbows and more. Our Gift Vouchers make ideal presents! Based on the stunning Elveden Estate, Norfolk/ Suffolk border. Complete with restaurant, country inn and shops. Activities are tailor made to suit groups, individuals, corporate events, hen & stag parties, school days, Lantra professional training. Pre-booking essential for all activities. explore-4x4.co.uk 01787 320640 enquiries@explore-4x4.co.uk

Welcome to The Oxton Liqueur Company, home of our deliciously, smooth and fruity liqueurs. They are all handmade by us here in Nottinghamshire, using the traditional methods of steeping and infusing the whole fruit to achieve an intense depth of flavour. We make up to fifteen different flavours much from foraged fruit and flowers close to home.

Tel : 07831 668762

Email : info@oxtonliqueurs.co.uk

GRAHAM HILL

Refined performance meets modern grooming with Graham Hill. Inspired by the legendary racing driver, the range combines precision, style and understated luxury across haircare, skincare and fragrance. From the fresh, invigorating notes of Beau Rivage Eau de Toilette to expertly crafted daily essentials, each product is designed for men who appreciate quality and character. Discover a complete grooming experience that makes an exceptional Father’s Day gift. Available from grahamhilluk.com and Amazon

THE OXTON LIQUEUR COMPANY

The Oxton Liqueur Company make the ‘World’s Best Liqueurs’.

Whether you are a Gin, Vodka, Whisky or Brandy connoisseur, you are spoilt for choice. They include the ‘World’s Best Fruit Gin 2025’, the ‘Best Sloe Gin in England 2025’, the ‘Best Scottish Whisky 2023’ and the ‘World’s Best Vodka 2020’. Then you can have a personalised message added to your selection. All available in a beautiful gift box. Make him feel special. Use FD2026. oxtonliqueurs.co.uk

GIFT THE GLENTURRET

A gift full of love, The Glenturret Gift Set, includes The Glenturret’s award winning 12 Years Old whisky alongside two elegant branded 4oz whisky glasses. Whether your dad is a seasoned whisky connoisseur or just enjoys the occasional slow sip after a long day, this gift set is a gesture of appreciation, a moment to be shared and a toast to celebrate everything dad has done for you.

To make this gift extra special add a personalised engraving message when purchasing online at theglenturret.com, creating a truly memorable and unique present.

ROYAL AUTOMOBILE CLUB

2026 CONCOURS

Woodcote Park Estate, Epsom, Surrey. Wednesday, 8 July 2026

Royal Automobile Club, the country’s oldest motoring organisation, will be welcoming fellow enthusiasts once again to their spectacular summer event at the Club’s Woodcote Park estate, set in 350 acres of the glorious Surrey countryside.

This outstanding occasion enters its second year, after establishing itself as a new highlight of the motoring season in 2025. The event forms an exciting addition to an already illustrious calendar of more than 60 annual motoring events hosted by the Club, including the RM Sotheby’s London to Brighton Veteran Car Run.

With a glorious celebration of exquisite cars, a lineup of industry interviews, live music and fine dining, the curated Club Concours will feature over 50 of the world’s finest cars, spanning more than 100 years of motoring history.

The Concours will transform the Royal Automobile Club’s breathtaking Woodcote Park estate into a unique motoring festival for a few precious hours.

The prestigious event is again open to members of invited car clubs and motoring organisations, especially those associated with the selected Concours categories and feature displays. Among those already confirmed for 2026 are the Aston Martin Owners’ Club,

British Racing Drivers’ Club (BRDC), Brooklands Museum Trust, Lamborghini Owners’ Club UK, Ferrari Owners’ Club, the Guild of Motoring Writers, Motorsport UK and the Vintage Sports-Car Club (VSCC).

2026 Royal Automobile Club Concours Categories

Seven classes will be judged by a panel of distinguished experts, competing for individual category honours as well as the coveted Best-in-Show award.

of Mercedes and Benz in 1926 to form one of the world’s greatest marques.

• Shooting Brakes: Elegant, practical sporting estates blending craftsmanship, versatility and style.

• The Woodcote Trophy: Pristine road-going examples of sports and sports-racing cars built before 1956.

• Pre-War Masterpieces: Highly individual pre-war cars distinguished by superbly evocative coachwork and storytelling mascots.

• Spoiler Alert: Factory-original performance road cars defined by purposeful rear aerofoils.

• Targa Florio: Cars that contested – or are eligible for the reenactment of – the legendary Sicilian road race.

• V12 Engines: Automobiles from any era united by the drama and excess of the V12 powerplant.

• Motorcycles: High-performance bikes, with special celebration in 2026 of Ducati, Yamaha, Royal Enfield, Barry Sheene and Brands Hatch milestones.

• Guests at this glorious ‘garden party’ are invited to enjoy special displays, with the day complemented by retail lodges, offering the very best luxury goods.

2026 Royal Automobile Club Concours Feature Displays

Six dedicated displays will honour major marque milestones as well as the Club’s own pioneering role in motoring and motorsport history.

• Those Extravagant Edwardians: Limousines and landaulettes representing the decadence of early motoring in the pre-WW1 era.

• The Adventurous Segrave: Celebrating the indomitable spirit of British adventurer and record-breaker Sir Henry Segrave - a key figure in the Club’s heritage.

• Grand Prix of the Royal Automobile Club: Honouring the centenary of Britain’s first-ever Grand Prix, staged at Brooklands in 1926.

• Centenary of Mercedes-Benz: Marking the historic unification

• An ‘L’ of a Display!: A double celebration paying tribute to the 120th anniversary of both Lancia and Lagonda.

• 130 Years of Daimler: A rarely seen collection of British greats from the vaults of the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust

Adding a further dash of excitement, world-renowned auction house RM Sotheby’s will host its Summer Sale at the Concours for the very first time – the auction forms a central element of a highly curated summer event just outside London. Presenting a carefully selected group of significant automobiles, the boutique sale will bring together leading collectors and enthusiasts for a focused, single-day auction within an environment defined by heritage, discretion, and quality.

The Woodcote Park clubhouse and estate is a spectacular venue and will provide a rare opportunity for visitors to experience the exclusive life of a Club member.

The Royal Automobile Club, Woodcote Park, Wilmerhatch Lane, Epsom, Surrey, KT18 7EW royalautomobileclub.co.uk

ESCAPE TO THE NORFOLK

COUNTRYSIDE THIS FATHER’S DAY

For families looking to slow down and spend quality time together this Father’s Day, The Wilds @ Cobbleacre Park offers a different kind of escape — one built around peaceful surroundings, outdoor living, and simple moments shared together.

Located in the Norfolk countryside, just a couple of hours from London, The Wilds is a small collection of lakeside safari tents designed for relaxed stays beneath big skies and away from the pace of everyday life. Combining the comfort of modern facilities with the charm of staying under canvas, the experience is ideal for couples, families, and anyone looking to properly switch off.

Each safari tent sleeps up to six guests and includes private bathroom facilities, a kitchenette, wood burner, BBQ, decking area, and access to a dedicated lakeside fire pit — perfect for long evenings outdoors. With no TVs in the tents, guests are encouraged to make the most of slower mornings, open space, and time spent together.

Fishing is also included during your stay, making The Wilds especially appealing for dads and families looking to enjoy a traditional countryside

break with a relaxed outdoor feel. Whether it’s casting a line by the water, toasting marshmallows over the fire pit, or simply enjoying coffee on the decking, the focus here is very much on reconnecting with nature and each other.

The Wilds is also perfectly placed for exploring Norfolk’s coastline, the Norfolk Broads, market towns such as Holt and Aylsham, and the city of Norwich, with its independent shopping, cafés, and renowned food scene.

As interest continues to grow in slower, experience-led travel, The Wilds offers a refreshing alternative to busier holiday destinations — somewhere families can unwind, explore, and enjoy a more relaxed pace together.

For more information, visit thewilds.co.uk thewildsglamping.co.uk

Lakeside Glamping Under Norfolk’s Dark Skies

Tucked within the peaceful surroundings of Cobbleacre Park, The Wilds is a new lakeside glamping retreat designed for families and couples seeking space, calm, and connection.

Set beside the water and beneath wide Norfolk skies, three beautiful safari tents offer comfort under canvas, blending nature with thoughtful luxury. Cosy wood burners, private bathrooms and outdoor fire pits, create a setting for slow mornings and starlit evenings.

Cobbleacre Park itself is a family-run destination shaped over generations, born from the creation of its original lake and now home to touring, holiday homes, and tranquil countryside stays.

The Wilds is its newest chapter, a quieter corner created for those who wish to escape the everyday and rediscover the outdoors.

PASSION, INNOVATION AND UNMATCHED CRAFTSMANSHIP

Aheritage British brand built around passion, innovation and unmatched craftsmanship, Holland & Holland have long been at the forefront of London gun making, luxurious field wear and world-class shooting tuition. Established in 1835 this prestigious brand remains as one of the most desirable in their field.

Holland & Holland’s want for perfection continues to not only mirror, but it surpasses the expectation of their many clients all over the world. You’ll not only find unparalleled skill in every inch of each handmade gun that they produce, you will also find it in every garment and accessory in their clothing range.

Quality shooting attire that’s as practical as it is stylish, while being British made, is hard to find elsewhere. Their tweed selection all comes from the very home of tweed production itself and recently the brand launched a bespoke house tweed woven by Lovat Mill specifically for Holland & Holland. Intertwined in the fabric you’ll find a nod to the colour case hardening of their shotguns, the Circassian walnut of their stocks, the gold inlay found on many pieces as well as their signature green.

Their garments showcase tradition while being extremely wearable in both the country and in town. From moleskin trousers, essential field coats and tweed breeches to silk scarves, stylish caps and delicate silver accessories, every occasion has been taken care of.

The recently launched jungle range, an important homage to the company’s legacy surrounding expeditions of the late 19th century and early 20th century, caters for the more adventurous Holland & Holland clients who seek the thrill of the African bush and beyond. A collection, whilst well suited to warmer climes, also makes itself at home in the city for a rugged and contemporary look.

In what was once a predominantly male pursuit, Holland & Holland have ensured that the ladies’ range of clothing is as functional as the men’s selection. The Ladies Royal Shooting Coat is beautifully tailored to the female form, while still having everything you need from a field coat and possibly more. It is one of those pieces that once you try it on, you’ll never forget how well it fits, and more often or not it won’t be a coat you’ll want to leave behind.

You can explore their full range and latest additions on their website or simply visit one of their gunrooms.

hollandandholland.com

THE GAME FAIR

24-26 July, Ragley Hall

The year’s most stylish countryside escape is calling, as it returns to the historic grounds of Ragley Hall in Warwickshire this summer. From 24 to 26 July The Game Fair, the UK’s ultimate celebration of the great British countryside seamlessly blends heritage with modern luxury, creating the perfect gifting opportunity for Father’s Day.

At its heart lies a deep respect for conservation and craftsmanship. Gunmakers’ Row returns as the country’s premier shooting exhibition, alongside The Gunmakers Trust, supporting the next generation of artisans. The new Modern Ruralist Craft Yard offers a tactile glimpse into Britain’s rural traditions, with live demonstrations - from dry stone walling to glass blowing - inviting visitors to take part, not just observe.

The energy builds at the Gundog Rings, where the prestigious Home International showcases elite spaniels and retrievers. Yet this is not just for experts; it’s a rare opportunity for everyday dog owners to learn from world-class trainers and put those insights into practice in interactive environments like the BASC Scurries.

For the fashion-conscious, the Fashion Village has evolved into a country-chic popup high street, where impeccably tailored tweeds meet boutique discoveries, bringing a touch of city polish to rural style.

Culinary highlights are equally compelling. From the expansive Totally Food Hall to the Great Taste Market, the event delivers a refined field-to-fork journey. This year, culinary master Marco Pierre White will be the official host on Friday and Saturday in the VIP Enclosure sponsored by JM Finn, whilst Dick and Angel Strawbridge, much loved stars of Escape to the Chateau, return as official hosts on Sunday. Dick and Marco will also demonstrate game cookery in the BASC Wild Food Kitchen Theatre sponsored by Global Knives. Meanwhile, magical mixologist Merlin Griffiths will host cocktail masterclasses and bespoke creations will be available throughout the weekend.

Beyond the showcases, expect world-class shooting, fishing, falconry, and family-friendly spectacles, from pony racing to hands-on countryside pursuits. To celebrate Father’s Day on 21st June Life Magazine readers can enjoy an exclusive 20% discount on tickets with code FATHERSDAY - an inspired gift for those who appreciate fine food, craftsmanship and the great outdoors. Tickets start from £40. The Game Fair Festival of the Countryside thegamefair.org

Focus On… VINEYARDS

Stunning vineyards to visit, both close and far

IMAGE: WINE GARDEN OF ENGLAND

CARVERS HILL ESTATE

Back in 2008, when Tim Griffiths acquired the historic Bordeaux estate, Domaine de Bellevue, he could never have imagined (“in a month of Sundays!”) that in 2021 he would plant vines on his Carvers Hill Estate in Wiltshire. The Griffiths Family were holidaying in the French Alps when Tim saw an advert from Jean Francois Boras, owner of Domaine de Bellevue, looking for an investor to complete the replanting and rebuilding of his Cadillac vineyard. Tim arranged to visit, met Jean-Francois – and together they set about resurrecting the estate. Today they still work together – now in both Bordeaux and Wiltshire, where Carvers Hill Estate is home to a beautifully situated vineyard and a stateof-the-art winery.

The transformation has been spectacular. “It is incredible to see the results coming from the vineyard and winery – we never dreamt England could make wines this good. So far Carvers Hill has a beautiful still rosé – a genuine rival to Provence – and the Chardonnay we will release later this year is seriously exciting. We are allowing

the sparkling wines to take their time (they’re made in the same method as Champagne), so we are having to be patient – letting them develop and mature for several years before release. We can’t wait to show them to the world when they are ready, as we think we really have something quite special here.”

The small but dedicated team host vineyard tours and wine tastings throughout the summer months – the estate is only an hour’s train from London – so easily accessible for visitors wanting a vineyard experience. Those looking for a real escape can book a stay in one of the off-grid woodland cabins, and fully immerse themselves in this ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.’

The estate also hosts an exclusive membership program – Le Grand Société – which offers members bespoke consignments from Domaine de Bellevue, Carvers Hill Estate and other partner wineries in Europe. Members also enjoy an annual calendar of private experiences –events in London and Wiltshire, and curated visits to wine regions in Europe.

For information on the wines, Tours, Visits and Membership go to carvershillestate.com

WINEMAKER PATRICK GOLSON AND OWNER TIM GRIFFITHS

WINE TOURS AT CARVERS HILL ESTATE

WOODLAND CABIN STAYS AT CARVERS HILL ESTATE

CARVERS HILL ESTATE ROSÉ

Leonardslee Family Vineyards

W“The two beautiful golf courses at Leonardslee offer breathtaking views”

ho doesn’t love discovering somewhere new?

We have found something very special; a wine estate with a championship golf course, luxury accommodation and award-winning English sparkling wines, only an hour from London.

Leonardslee Family Vineyards is nestled in the heart of West Sussex and only makes English sparkling from fruit grown and nurtured in its own vineyards. The property was purchased by Penny Streeter OBE in 2016, the year later she planted vines with the vision of creating a spectacular wine destination in the UK, which celebrates wine, nature, food, arts and design. The estate upholds Penny’s extremely high standards with a passion for excellence and impeccable service.

Visitors can enjoy wine tastings and vineyard tours, trained wine specialists will introduce you to the Leonardslee story and winemaking behind its award-winning wines. Set within the heart of the estate, this guided wine tasting is the perfect way to deepen your appreciation of English terroir, tradition, and craftsmanship.

Climb aboard a golf buggy for a vineyard tour and enjoy the true serenity of the vines, hidden away off the beaten track. This intimate guided tour offers behind-the-scenes

insight into how our celebrated English sparkling wines are made.

The Vineyard Kitchen at Leonardslee Wine Estate offers a relaxed and flavourful menu that celebrates fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Open for brunch, lunch and dinner on select days, it’s the perfect destination to enjoy delicious meals in a scenic setting.

The two beautiful golf courses at Leonardslee offer breathtaking views. The 18 hole Waterfall Course is one of Sussex’s most iconic championship layouts, established in 1905 and designed by the legendary Harry Colt. Set across 6,683 yards of rolling parkland and mature woodland and the 9-hole Kingfisher Course is designed for enjoyment and accessibility.

Elevate your visit and stay at the Vineyard Hotel, there are 9 beautiful boutique rooms, creating a relaxed and refined retreat in a stunning location.

All bedrooms are ensuite, elegantly styled, offering tranquil views and modern comforts. With luxurious touches, including Tyneham toiletries and a Nespresso machine, all the essentials needed for a relaxing stay. leonardslee.co.uk

THE ART OF THE PROVENANCE: WHY THE PRIVATE CELLAR IS THE NEW MUST-HAVE ASSET

There is a unique pleasure that cannot be replicated: selecting a bottle from one’s own cellar, knowing the exact reason for that choice. For the serious collector, wine is more than a commodity; it is a living, breathing history of place, time, and memories.

Historically, the preservation of fine wine was a matter of survival - necessitated by the volatility of temperature and light. From the rudimentary clay amphorae of the Bronze Age to the subterranean stone cellars of the 18th-century merchant class, the evolution of wine storage has always been driven by a singular goal: maintaining the integrity of the bottle.

For decades, the standard for a collector has been the “in-bond” warehouse. It remains the gold standard for liquidity, tax efficiency, and institutional-grade climate control. However, we are witnessing a significant shift in the landscape of collecting. The most discerning connoisseurs are no longer choosing between professional security and home accessibility; they are demanding both.

The modern home cellar is no longer a dark, forgotten corner of the basement. It has evolved into a centerpiece of luxury architecture - a “sanctuary space” where technology meets aesthetic ambition. With the advent of climate control and bespoke glassand-steel design, these installations serve as both high-performance preservation systems and architectural statements.

Why is this shift happening? It is a transition from viewing wine

solely as a financial asset to treating it as an essential component of one’s lifestyle.

• Accessibility and Curation: While your portfolio remains securely managed in bonded storage, your home cellar provides a dynamic, ready-todrink selection tailored to your personal palate and upcoming events. It turns the act of hosting into an immersive experience.

• The Rise of Large Format Bottles: When entertaining, large format bottlessuch as Magnums, Jeroboams, and Imperials are becoming increasingly popular. Beyond their dramatic visual aesthetic and sense of theatre, they offer superior aging potential due to a lower air-to-wine ratio, which slows oxidation.

• Property Value: As luxury home design continues to evolve, a professionally installed, climate-controlled wine wall or cellar has become one of the most requested features among high-net-worth buyers,

significantly enhancing a property’s prestige and resale appeal.

• The Psychological Dividend: There is a profound sense of pride in ownership that comes from seeing your collection beautifully displayed and curated. Engaging with it - cataloging, managing, and showcasing your vintages - transforms the process of collecting from a passive investment into a deeply personal pursuit.

Designing a home cellar is more than an interior upgrade; it is an investment in the longevity of your collection and the quality of your leisure time. It allows you to bridge the gap between professional investor and the passionate enthusiast.

As you look to refine your collection or plan the next iteration of your home, the question is not just how to store your wine, but how you wish to experience it. For those who view their collection as a legacy, Sorrells offers the expertise to ensure that your home environment is as precise, secure, and beautiful as the vintages you house within it. sorrellscellars.com

IVINEYARD LIVING

BY JO GINN, WINE GARDEN OF ENGLAND

f you enjoy Champagne, you’ve probably noticed that England is producing sparkling wine that can rival your favourite french tipple. Our burgeoning wine industry has come a long way in the last 30 years, when in the mid 90’s Nyetimber won a global sparkling wine trophy with their Kent grown fizz, yomping to victory over traditional Champagne. Now, Kent alone is home to 25% of UK wine producers, and Sussex isn’t far behind.

Why have we suddenly become the world’s most interesting wine region? Number one is climate change. At 51-52 degrees North, we are essentially outside the limits of vine cultivation, because it’s too cold and wet to ripen grapes. However, the most elegant sparkling wines come from cool parts of the world, such as Northern France, so it doesn’t take much of a change in climate for us to suddenly find ourselves in possession of the best land for planting vines. Number two is soil. Champagne is planted mainly on chalk; it’s free draining

but it has an amazing capacity to retain water. Vines are like many plants, in that they hate sitting in water and they are all the better for working hard to find it. Kent and Sussex share the chalk seam with Northern France. We also have other mineral rich, free draining sandy soils that vines love. Number three is people. Plumpton College near Brighton is the largest English speaking winemaking school in Europe. It attracts talent from all over the world, creating tomorrow’s winemakers right here on our doorstep. Some we will definitely lose to warmer climes, but most will stay here and be part of the dawn of a new age.

Wine producers are choosing the southeast of the UK to establish their vineyards because we have more sunshine hours and less rain than anywhere else. The good news is that many of these vineyards are open to the public, and offer incredible wine tasting and touring experiences in breathtaking scenery. An hour from London, there are plenty of vineyards that are eager to welcome you.

Chapel Down is the largest UK wine producer with an extensive range of award winning still and sparkling wines. Their Kits Coty Chardonnay is reminiscent of a Pouilly Fusé. They are based in Tenterden and offer tours and tastings alongside their fine dining restaurant, The Swan.

Squerryes Winery is the closest to London, just off junction 5 of M25. It’s the highest vineyard in Kent, and only produces the finest sparkling wines. Spend a day walking through the vines, eating in their excellent restaurant, shopping for local delicacies in their deli, and even popping in to Westerham Brewery next door.

Domaine Evremond is very interesting. This is jointly owned by the Taittinger family and a UK wine importer called Hatch Mansfield, who bring many household names including Taittinger and Villa Maria onto our shores. The land in Chilham near Canterbury was chosen, and now the first English Sparkling Wine from Taittinger has been introduced under the Domaine Evremond brand. You can visit their state of the art winery that’s built into the chalk landscape, and the wine is every bit as good as you’d expect.

“Wine producers are choosing the southeast of the UK to establish their vineyards because we have more sunshine hours and less rain than anywhere else”

Balfour Winery in Staplehurst is an easy choice. It’s open every day of the year, it has a wide variety of food and wine, they shuttle you to and from Marden Station, and the estate is beautiful. Many Londoners have discovered it as their weekend escape.

Simpsons Wine Estate is close to Canterbury - it would make an excellent addition to a weekend away in this beautiful city. It’s owned by a couple who have a very successful Chateau in the Languedoc, and they came home ten years ago to make wine here. They always intended to make fine sparkling wine, but the microclimate is so warm that they have also produced some excellent still wines, including one of England’s best Pinot Noirs.

Gusbourne is closest to the south coast near Rye, and benefits from refreshing sea breezes that keep their estate fruit healthy, allowing it to ripen perfectly. They produce some of the finest wines in the UK, and their hospitality matches this standard. Spend a day with them on an Estate Tour, which includes a perfectly paired three course lunch overlooking the vines, or the winery.

Yotes Court is home to the best view of a vineyard we’ve ever seen. It quietly sits just off the M26, and as you drive in, it will take your breath away. You’ll be happy to sit and sample their excellent still and sparkling wines, amongst friendly locals who flock here every weekend. It’s owned by a very successful racehorse owner, Susannah Ricci, and the range of wines is branded to match her jockey silks.

If you are hankering after that French holiday when you visited the rustic

wineries, I have two more for you.

Biddenden Vineyard is the beating heart of the village with the same name, not far from Ashford. It’s the oldest vineyard in Kent, with vines dating back to 1969. At the time, it was an orchard farm and owner Joyce Barnes heard that vineyards were worth a punt on BBC Radio 4 Women’s Hour. At the time, only German varieties would grow here, and the vineyard is now run by the family’s third generation, making the most deliciously approachable wines from these old vines. It’s relaxed, friendly and open to self guided tours around the vineyard, followed by wine tasting and local food.

Westwell is a favourite with locals and visitors from London alike. It’s run by two music veterans who believe in low intervention winemaking. The winery and tasting room seem to merge into one, and the pizza and DJ nights are worth booking a hotel for. The winery is built on the Pilgrims Way near Ashford, and their signature wine is a classic cuvée called Pelegrimdon’t leave there without a bottle; it’s truly sublime.

If you’re inspired to research your local vineyards, take a look at winegardenofengland.co.uk for more information. Once you’ve got the bug, you might like to save some money and join the Members’ Club where you can visit nine of the leading Kent vineyards for free.

THE WINNING VIEW: A Sophisticated Kent Escape

There was a time when a premium vineyard tour required a passport, but world-class wine and vineyard experiences are now flourishing just a short journey from London. Nestled in the rolling hills of Kent, Yotes Court offers a sophisticated yet down-to-earth wine destination—the perfect opportunity to trade the city’s pace for the serene beauty of the English countryside and a glass of award-winning wine.

“The best site I have planted in 45 years”

While the atmosphere at Yotes Court is refreshingly playful, the viticultural credentials are world-class. This “perfect recipe” of frost-free, south-facing slopes and heat-retaining ragstone—noted by Master of Wine Stephen Skelton—allows the estate to produce still and sparkling wines of exceptional character. As a Gold-certified member of Sustainable Wines of Great Britain, Yotes Court uses innovative, minimum-intervention methods to ensure the quality in the glass is matched by a pioneering commitment to the land.

From the Cheltenham Winners’ Enclosure to the Vineyard

Racing fans will immediately recognize the iconic pink-and-green spotted silks of owner Susannah Ricci, whose horses dominated the headlines at this year’s Cheltenham Festival. That same “winner’s circle” energy is the heartbeat of Yotes Court. From the striking life-sized horse statue that greets visitors to wine names like On the Nod, the estate is a stylish tribute to Susannah’s racing legacy. It offers a premium experience delivered entirely without pretension.

An Unforgettable Visit

Whether you are a seasoned sommelier or a curious newcomer, the welcome here is warm and genuine.

• The Cellar Door & Paddock Lawn: Open Wednesday to Sunday April to October for a relaxed afternoon. Enjoy tasting flights paired with locally sourced cheese and charcuterie while soaking in “The Winning View”– a panoramic vista across the vines.

• Immersive Experiences: Book a guided tour to learn the “story behind the bottle,” or join one of their special events, from “Paint & Sip” sessions to a “Harvest Experience.”

Getting Here: Escape the city with ease. They are less than an hour from London; take the train from London Bridge to Tonbridge, followed by a brief taxi journey to their Cellar Door.

yotescourt.co.uk

@yotescourt Yotes Court Vineyard, West Peckham, Kent, ME18 5JT

WHERE VINE MEETS VERSE

Abingworth Vineyard is a boutique, family-run vineyard in West Sussex producing elegant English still wines.

Founded in 2021 by Chris and Caroline Stedman, the vineyard is run alongside their four daughters - a hands-on family project shaped by dedication, creativity and determination. Every element is carefully considered, from the vines to the labels, illustrated by one of the sisters.

Set within historic Champions Farm, the vineyard draws inspiration from its landscape and quirky history, reflected in the wines, their names and labels that tell its story.

The focus is on expressive still wines made with a low-intervention approach, combining traditional methods with modern winemaking techniques.

Visitors are welcome for tastings and vineyard experiences in the South Downs from Summer 2026.

“This

is the best English wine I’ve ever tasted — what a pleasure!”

— Patrick Sells

A NEW CHAPTER IN EVERY GLASS

“A beautiful family-led vineyard — the wines never fail to surprise.”

Abingworth Vineyard began with a simple question: what if they just went for it?

In 2021, the decision was made to turn a lifelong dream into reality, leading them to Champions Farm in West Sussex — a place with a long history and a landscape perfectly suited to its next chapter in viticulture.

This land has been lived on for centuries. There are traces of Roman activity beneath the fields, Tudor elements in the farmhouse, a poetic link to the Shelley family, and generations of farming woven into its story. It has also become a source of inspiration for the vineyard’s wine labels, which honour the quirky tales that make it so unique. Today, it begins its next chapter as a boutique, family-run vineyard and winery.

Abingworth is run by Chris and Caroline Stedman and their four daughters. From the beginning, it has been a hands-on venture, with collaborative decision-making, work in the fields, and ideas constantly moving between vineyard, winery, and kitchen table.

The focus is on producing elegant English still wines that reflect

— Andrea Petrescu

both the site and the wider South Downs landscape. The vineyard sits on free-draining, mineralrich soils, and a low-intervention approach is used to allow the fruit to express itself naturally. In winter, sheep graze between the vines, helping to care for the land in a natural way.

The winery has been purpose-built to support this approach, combining modern technology with traditional techniques so the character of the fruit shines through.

Even the wine names and labels carry part of the story, drawn from the history and quirks of the land and illustrated by one of the daughters.

Guests are now being welcomed to the vineyard for tastings and tours this summer.

For those discovering the vineyard from further afield, they invite people to stay connected by subscribing for updates and first access to new releases.

Enjoy 10% off online orders with code DISCOVERABW abingworthvineyard.com @abingworthvineyard info@abingworthvineyard.com

SURREY HILLS WINE WEEK

A celebration of Vineyards of the Surrey Hills

The Vineyards of the Surrey Hills are thrilled to announce the very first Surrey Hills Wine Week, running from Saturday May 30 to Sunday June 7, 2026.

Over the course of the week, all seven Surrey Hills vineyards will open their gates with a series of unique events, offering visitors the chance to explore the region’s exceptional wines through immersive tours, tastings and one-of-a-kind experiences.

The Vineyards of the Surrey Hills - Albury Organic Vineyard, Chilworth Manor Vineyard, Denbies Wine Estate, Greyfriars Vineyard, High Clandon, Soloms Court and Tanhurst Estate - produce outstanding wines from the rolling North Downs, nestled within the Surrey Hills National Landscape, just south of London.

SURREY HILLS WINE WEEK 2026 - WHAT TO BOOK

Saturday May 30, 11.30am and 2.30pm

Battle of the Bubbles at High Clandon Estate Vineyard

battle-of-waterloo-taste-off-2026.

Clandon Downs, Clandon, Surrey GU4 7RP.

Saturday May 30, 10am

Stroll and Sip at Tanhurst Estate Vineyard

Tanhurst Estate Vineyard is opening its doors to enjoy a ‘Stroll and Sip’ event. The morning starts at 10am with a dog walk of approximately 1 hour 15 minutes around the estate and surrounding beautiful Leith Hill. Then visitors will return to the vineyard café for a chance to taste Surrey Hills wines.

High Clandon Estate Vineyard’s Battle of the Bubbles puts Surrey Hills sparkling wines to the ultimate test, pitting them head-to-head against Champagne in a witty, informative and highly entertaining masterclass tasting. Tickets at highclandon.co.uk/

More information soon at tanhurstestate.co.uk

Tanhurst Lane, Holmbury St Mary, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6LZ

Thursday June 4, 6.30pm to 8.30pm

Summer Solstice Tour at Greyfriars Vineyard

Join Greyfriars for an early celebration of the longest day of the year in this special event hosted by Mike Wagstaff, owner of Greyfriars, and vineyard manager, David Line. Enjoy an evening tour of the vineyard, learn about Greyfriars’ humble beginnings and journey to date. As part of the tour, you will also learn about Vineyards of the Surrey Hills and their unique stories.

Tickets: £35 per person. Tickets at greyfriarsvineyard.co.uk

Hogs Back, Puttenham, Surrey GU3 1AG

Saturday June 6, 6pm to 10pm

Vineyards of the Surrey Hills Tour, Tasting & Dinner at Denbies Wine Estate

Enjoy a specialist tasting and tour on the Denbies Wine Train. Hosted by Denbies WSET Wine Expert, the trail will take to the high points of the vineyard, with tastings along the way. Offering breathtaking views across the avenues of vines, this is a real immersion into the art of English wine. Your tour will conclude with a fourcourse menu paired with selected tastings from the Vineyards of the Surrey Hills.

Tickets: £78 per person (add a selection of English wine to accompany the tasting menu for £20). More information soon at denbies.co.uk/fc-events/surrey-hills-wine-week-tasting-tourdinner. Bradley Lane, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA

Saturday June 6, 1pm

Vineyards of the Surrey Hills Tasting and Tour at Greyfriars Vineyard

In celebration of Vineyards of the Surrey Hills, Greyfriars is hosting a special vineyard tour and tasing. Join the team for a tour of the vineyard, learn the process of grape to glass and enjoy a tutored tasting of award winning wine from Vineyards of the Surrey Hills, including Albury Organic Vineyard, Denbies Wine Estate and Chilworth Manor Vineyard.

Tickets: £25 per person. Tickets at greyfriarsvineyard.co.uk Hogs Back, Puttenham, Surrey GU3 1AG

Sunday June 7, 12 noon to 5pm

Denbies 40th Celebration

Wine Festival

Join Denbies Wine Estate to celebrate 40 years since they first planted vines. Enjoy a Cellar Door tasting hosted by Denbies Cellarmaster, a Vineyards of the Surrey Hills tasting experience, live music throughout the day and Pizza & Platters on the Lawn. Admission is free but additional charges apply to food and drink. More information soon at denbies.co.uk/fc-events/ surrey-hills-wine-week-denbies. Bradley Lane, Dorking, Surrey RH5 6AA

Sunday June 7, 12 noon to 6pm

Albury Wine Festival at Albury Organic Vineyard

The annual Albury Wine Festival is a relaxed summer celebration of local wine, food and music. Held during Surrey Hills Wine Week, the festival showcases the Vineyards of the Surrey Hills in a beautiful countryside setting. Spend the afternoon among the vines with a glass of award-winning Albury wine while enjoying live music, artisan food and vineyard experiences. Visitors can also sample wines from across the Surrey Hills in a tutored tasting session, explore the vineyard and wildlife walk, and relax with delicious food including pizza, ice cream, and English cheese and charcuterie.

Tickets: 19.50 per person (children free). Buy tickets now at alburyvineyard.com. Silent Pool, Shere Road, Albury, Guildford, Surrey GU5 9BW

Sunday June 7, 1.30pm and 4.15pm

Vineyards of the Surrey Hills Tasting at Chilworth Manor Vineyard

Chilworth Manor Vineyard’s Watch House Tasting Barn is the perfect spot to enjoy Surrey Hills wines. Join the team to sample a selection of Vineyards of the Surrey Hills wines at a special Surrey Hills Wine Week tasting. Tickets: £39 per person. Buy tickets now at chilworthmanorvineyard.com. Halfpenny Lane, Chilworth, Guildford, Surrey GU4 8NN

This year promises to be particularly memorable for the Surrey Hills Wine Route. For the first time, Tanhurst Estate Vineyard will officially join the celebrations, Soloms Court Wine Estate will unveil its very first wine, and Denbies Wine Estate will mark a remarkable 40 years since planting its first vines. Wine lovers, locals and visitors alike are invited to raise a glass to this exciting new celebration of Surrey Hills’ finest vintages.

NOW FOR SOMETHING A BIT DIFFERENT

WWine for the culturally disobedient

sharpest palates in the world.

Their latest release – The Disobedient Pale Rosé – is already available in the three Michelin starred Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester and their other wines, including a darker style rosé and a Burgundy-quality chardonnay, appear in places like The Newt, Selfridges, Ynyshir, to name a few.

hen it comes to a feature on English wine, we bet you weren’t expecting this… the heretics started in 2023 as a way to combine Gareth’s extensive experience in English wine with Jimmy’s love of design - creating something that looks as good on the outside as it tastes on the inside. Their focus started in the Crouch Valley in Essex. For still wine, they felt it was on a different level. Turns out, they weren’t wrong.

Today, their wines are poured in some of the most respected venues in the country, including over 12 Michelin-starred restaurants. They’ve also been recognised by some of the

The main image on their labels are designed by young, upand-coming creatives, with each vintage getting its own artwork; something you can collect, like a kind of over-18s Pokémon. They’ve got no ambition to be huge. No interest in being mainstream. This is about quality, style, art, music, culture - and, ultimately, making wines that blow their socks off (and hopefully yours too).

the heretics aren’t interested in pairing their wines with salmon canapés or anything like that, instead they’ve put together a playlist as a much better accompaniment to drinking their wines. So, in their words, enjoy and turn the music up.

‘We’re not traditional wine makers. We’re not picnic kind of people, visits to the opera don’t really float our boat and we avoid the mainstream. We love festivals, clubs, independent businesses and always banging wine’ Gareth Maxwell, Chief Heretic. wearetheheretics.com

Instagram: fortheheretics

“The grape varieties themselves play a key role in shaping the style”

WILD IDOL: THE LUXURY SPARKLING

ALTERNATIVE

Wild Idol offers a refined, luxury sparkling alternative that is naturally alcohol-free, designed to sit effortlessly alongside the world’s finest wines and Champagnes. Created for those who want to drink less without compromising on experience, it brings a true sense of occasion to alcohol-free moments, with a focus on elegance, balance and exceptional taste.

At its core, Wild Idol is crafted from a blend of carefully selected grapes by expert winemakers, combining elements of traditional craftsmanship with a contemporary approach. Unlike many alcoholfree wines, it is not de-alcoholised; instead, it is made without fermentation, meaning no alcohol is ever created or removed. This naturally alcohol-free process preserves the purity and integrity of the fruit, resulting in a liquid that is both precise and expressive, with

minimal intervention throughout.

The grape varieties themselves play a key role in shaping the style. Varietals including Müller-Thurgau and Merlot are chosen for their vibrant fruit character and aromatic complexity. The result is a finely sparkling liquid with delicate bubbles, offering freshness, depth and a refined sense of structure in a naturally alcohol-free expression.

With a focus on celebration without compromise, Wild Idol reflects a growing shift towards more mindful, inclusive drinking at the premium end of the market. Vegan, gluten-free and low in calories, it aligns with modern lifestyles while maintaining a distinctly luxurious positioning.

Now stocked in Harrods, Selfridges, Jeroboams, Daylesford Organic and many more, as well as a selection of leading hotels, restaurants and spas, Wild Idol is becoming the go-to choice for those seeking a high-quality, luxury naturally alcohol-free sparkling wine. Elegant, contemporary and effortlessly enjoyable, it represents a new standard in sparkling - where craftsmanship, purity and indulgence come together.

wildidol.com

Outstanding Wine Courses, Master Classes, Tastings and Events since 1993. Our highly acclaimed tutors have the qualifications and industry experience to help you build your wine knowledge and tasting skills in no time. Book one of our courses and discover the joy of picking your next wine with confidence.

BOOK YOUR COURSE OR BUY A GIFT VOUCHER FOR SOMEONE SPECIAL

Open Dated Wine Tasting Gift Vouchers make the perfect Gift. Choose from Beginners courses to French, Italian, Champagne or Spanish Masterclass to Gourmet Wine & Food matching and more. We also offer affordable staff training packages for teams.

Our venues include 5 Star Hotels, Private Members Clubs to award winning Gastro Pubs in London and beyond.

LUXURY TRAVEL

Heading away to explore the rest of the world

IMAGE: LUXURY LONG-HAUL FOR 2026

IONIAN ESCAPE

Suspended between sea and sky, Cavo Alkyoni offers a refined yet understated escape on Corfu’s serene northeast coast. Perched above the shimmering waters of Avlaki Bay, this private estate brings together four independent villas, panoramic views, and thoughtful, discreet service—all wrapped in the island’s raw natural beauty. It’s a place that feels both secluded and effortlessly luxurious.

Set within manicured grounds shaded by olive trees, the villas—Amalthea, Pelagia, Erato, and Tugela—capture the spirit of contemporary Mediterranean living. Each has its own character: Amalthea is defined by expansive open spaces that flow onto a dramatic 40-metre infinity pool appearing to merge with the sea; Pelagia sits closer to the water’s edge and carries a gentle, intimate charm; while newer additions Erato and Tugela introduce a fresh architectural clarity through clean lines, generous terraces, and maturing gardens that frame uninterrupted views of the Ionian.

The estate is designed with flexibility in mind. The villas can be rented individually or together, comfortably welcoming groups from eight to forty guests. This makes Cavo Alkyoni an exceptional choice for multigenerational escapes, milestone celebrations, or boutique destination weddings where privacy and togetherness are equally important.

Outdoor living is central to the experience: private pools, wide sun terraces, and shaded dining areas encourage slow mornings, long afternoons in the sun, and relaxed dinners that

stretch late into warm Corfiot nights. For cooler months, the pools at Pelagia, Erato, and Tugela can be heated, while a shared tennis court and floating pontoon add further opportunities for leisure.

What truly elevates a stay at Cavo Alkyoni is its intuitive service ethos. The in-house concierge team ensures every detail feels seamless—from pre-arrival shopping and airport transfers to arranging personal trainers, massage therapists, private chefs, or bespoke boat trips exploring Corfu’s coastline. Guests are supported without ever feeling interrupted, allowing each stay to feel entirely their own.

With returning guests year after year, Cavo Alkyoni has earned a loyal following for its understated elegance, breathtaking views, and quietly attentive hospitality. For those seeking a luxury villa experience that balances refinement with complete privacy, this Corfiot retreat offers something genuinely special.

Get in touch: cavoalkyoniestate@outlook.com cavo-alkyoni.com

The easiest way to fly in privacy

Bookajet is a privately owned British aviation company headquartered at Farnborough Airport, delivering exceptional private aviation services since 1997. With decades of industry experience, their knowledgeable and dedicated team specialises in providing fully tailored solutions designed to meet the unique needs of every client. Whether you require bespoke aircraft charter, access to their flexible JetBlack hours programme, or expert support with aircraft sales and management, Bookajet ensure a personalised and professional experience from start to finish.

Their approach is centred around precision, discretion, and meticulous attention to detail. They understand that private aviation is not just about reaching a destination - it’s about the quality, comfort, and efficiency of the journey itself. That’s why they take the time to fully understand your preferences, schedules, and expectations, allowing them to deliver a seamless and highly efficient service every time you fly with them. From selecting the most suitable aircraft to coordinating

every aspect of your itinerary, the Bookajet team works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure everything runs smoothly and exceeds expectations.

From Miami to Milan, Tokyo to Toronto or London to Los Angeles, Bookajet arrange private jet flights worldwide; from anywhere to anywhere. Their flexible solutions are designed to adapt to your lifestyle or business demands, offering convenience without compromise. Safety, reliability, and trust remain at the core of everything they do. At the same time, their flexible solutions are designed to adapt to your lifestyle or business demands, offering convenience without compromise and the ability to travel on your terms.

“Their approach is centred around precision, discretion, and meticulous attention to detail”

At Bookajet, they believe that private aviation should be straightforward, stressfree, and genuinely enjoyable. By managing all logistics and finer details with precision and care, they allow you to focus on what truly matters - whether that’s relaxing, staying productive, or simply enjoying an exceptional flying experience tailored entirely to you. For more information, visit bookajet.com

THE PINNACLE OF LUXURY: LONG-HAUL JOURNEYS FOR 2026

For discerning London travellers planning long-haul escapes in late 2026 and beyond, the luxury travel landscape is richer and more diverse than ever. From private island seclusion to alpine elegance, safari wonder to culinary pilgrimages, the world’s top destinations now offer experiences that exhilarate the senses, celebrate place, and reward the curious. Whether you’re seeking Michelin-star meals, five-star hotels with bespoke service, or jaw-dropping natural scenery, these journeys promise memories as vivid as the images on your camera’s memory card.

Paradise Redefined: Indian Ocean Islands and Seaside Sanctuaries

At the pinnacle of oceanic luxury are destinations that combine turquoise seas, white sand beaches, and refined hospitality. In the

Indian Ocean, the classic postcard fantasy continues to evolve. New resorts in the Maldives’ Raa Atoll promise architectural artistry and world-class dining, where every villa faces an infinite horizon and spa experiences are conducted in over-water pavilions.

“In culinary capitals around the world, Michelin-starred restaurants have become destination experiences in their own right”

Similarly, secluded island sanctuaries framed by lush jungle and cerulean waves – such as ultra-exclusive retreats on Sumba, Indonesia – offer an entirely different pace: horseback rides on unspoilt beaches, private picnics beneath swaying palms, and wellness experiences that feel almost transcendental.

In the Caribbean, villas with private infinity pools overlooking sheltered coves speak to those who prize privacy and style. Somewhere equally alluring is the Arabian Gulf’s emerging luxury island destination of Sindalah, where designer leisure marinas, world-class cuisine, and curated sea experiences signal the next wave of high-end travel.

Wild Wonders and Safari Spectaculars

Land-based luxury still holds timeless appeal, and few experiences rival a safari where nature’s raw beauty meets bespoke comfort. Curated camps and lodges in East and Southern Africa now blend refined interiors with immersion in wildlife habitats. Imagine dawn coffee by a private deck as herds of elephants wander past, sunset game drives with expert guides, and dinners under stars punctuated only by the

call of the wild. The trend toward smaller, ultra-exclusive properties (with private plunge pools overlooking watering holes) ensures that each moment feels personal and profound.

Sky-High Views and Alpine Elegance

For travellers who love mountain majesty, luxury alpine destinations in the French and Italian Alps combine crisp air, epic scenery, and the world’s most polished winter hospitality. A newly opened ski resort in Courchevel 1850 epitomises this: think ski-in/ski-out access, plush lounge spaces with roaring fireplaces, and refined mountain cuisine that elevates après-ski to a culinary art.

All-season alpine retreats also feature year-round hiking and heli-tours over snow-dusted peaks. Warm woods, cosy spas, and panoramic terraces serve as backdrops for slow mornings savouring rich coffee with snowy ranges beyond.

Cultural Capitals and Gastronomic Capitals

Long-haul experiences are not just about natural scenery; world cities with storied pasts and buzzing cultural rhythms are equally magnetic. Major destinations have doubled down on luxury hospitality with storied hotels that make a room itself a highlight of the trip. From iconic grand dames in major capitals to newly refreshed heritage properties that blend history with contemporary design, there is no shortage of spaces worth lingering in.

In culinary capitals around the world, Michelin-starred restaurants have become destination experiences in their own right. With the return of the Michelin Guide to cities like Las Vegas in 2026, global dining scenes are getting fresh attention, expanding from European strongholds to places that surprise and delight.

From the French-inspired tasting menus of ocean-view resorts to multi-course soirées in desert palaces or amidst jungle canopies, these gastronomic journeys often define a luxury itinerary. Whether in iconic urban centres or remote reaches of Asia and Latin America,

expect refined menus, rare wines, and chef-led experiences that transcend the ordinary.

Emerging Highlights and 2026 Hot Spots

As the travel calendar turns, a handful of fresh openings and trends beckon. New wellness-led resorts in Sri Lanka’s tea country, private isles in the Mediterranean, and boutique estates perched above terraced vineyards provide compelling reasons to plan journeys now. Sustainable luxury is also reshaping expectations: travellers increasingly seek places that celebrate local culture and ecology, from conservation-minded safari camps to design-driven hideaways with minimal environmental impact.

Final Flourish: Dreams Worth Booking Now

These journeys represent more than escapes; they are narratives woven from remarkable sights, flavours, and moments that stay with you long after you return. Whether it’s a private sunset cruise through deserted waters, a Michelin-level tasting beneath a desert sky, or a dawn hike through sacred hills, the world’s top luxury destinations invite a return to wonder.

DISCOVER JAPAN WITH POWDER BYRNE

35 YEARS OF LEGACY AND EXPERTISE

For over three decades, Powder Byrne has developed a deep-rooted understanding of Japan, crafting journeys that extend far beyond the slopes. While long recognised for exceptional ski holidays, their expertise also reaches into the country’s lesser-known regions, where culture, nature and tradition come together. The result is a collection of experiences that feel both exclusive and genuinely connected to the essence of Japan.

A Legacy of Local Insight

Powder Byrne’s enduring presence in Japan has allowed them to build meaningful relationships across the country. From the ski slopes of Hokkaido and Tohoku to the more remote corners of Kyushu, their network includes local guides, ryokan owners, artisans and cultural hosts. This depth of connection shapes every itinerary they create.

Rather than following predictable routes, their journeys are defined by access and understanding. Travellers may stay in family-run ryokans with generations of history, dine on regional specialities prepared

with locally sourced ingredients, or explore landscapes alongside those who know them intimately. It is this level of immersion that underpins Powder Byrne’s expertise.

Their knowledge is not simply about destinations, but about timing, pace and nuance, ensuring each journey feels considered, balanced and authentic.

Japan Beyond the Expected

While many visitors are drawn to Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, Powder Byrne encourages a broader perspective. Their itineraries often lead into regions where Japan reveals a quieter, more contemplative side.

In these lesser-travelled areas, experiences unfold to a different rhythm. Guests might walk through ancient cedar forests, visit coastal onsen towns or engage with centuries-old traditions that remain part of daily life. Encounters with local artisans, from silk weavers to master chefs, offer a deeper understanding of regional identity and creativity.

Accommodation plays a central role in shaping these

journeys. From refined ryokans offering exceptional cuisine to temple lodgings where guests can take part in morning rituals, each stay is carefully chosen for its character and sense of place. These are not itineraries built around checklists, but around meaningful engagement and a slower, more thoughtful way of travelling.

Skiing Japan, Expertly Crafted

Skiing remains at the heart of Powder Byrne’s heritage, and their knowledge of Japan’s alpine landscape is extensive. Their tailored ski journeys combine world-class snow conditions with seamless organisation and personalised guiding.

On the northern island of Hokkaido, their signature ski experiences showcase renowned resorts such as Niseko, Furano, Rusutsu and Kiroro. Known for its light, abundant powder snow, the region offers some of the finest skiing in the world. Powder Byrne’s dedicated local guides ensure clients make the most of each day, adapting plans to suit both conditions and individual preferences.

Accommodation is equally considered, ranging from contemporary luxury hotels to traditional ryokans, each selected for comfort, atmosphere and location. In Niseko, high-end properties bring together refined design, exceptional

dining and views of Mount Yōtei, while smaller ryokans provide a more intimate experience of Japanese hospitality.

For those seeking a quieter alternative, Tohoku offers a different perspective. Here, resorts such as Zao Onsen combine excellent snow with a sense of tranquillity. The region’s famed “snow monsters”, trees transformed by ice and wind into sculptural forms, add a distinctive element to the landscape, while the ease of access by bullet train makes travel convenient and relaxing.

Seamless Journeys, Designed Around You

What ultimately defines a Powder Byrne experience is the level of care behind it. Every itinerary is individually tailored, whether it centres on a ski adventure, a cultural exploration or a combination of both.

From private transfers and expert guides to thoughtfully selected accommodation, each element is designed to ensure comfort and ease, even in more remote areas. At the same time, flexibility remains key. Travellers can shape their journey around personal interests, from outdoor pursuits and culinary discovery to heritage and craftsmanship.

Powder Byrne’s long-standing relationships across Japan open doors that would otherwise remain closed, allowing for experiences that feel personal, immersive and genuinely distinctive.

Visit powderbyrne.com

ALDERNEY: The Channel Island you’ll lose your heart to

Alderney feels like a best-kept secret – and that is precisely its appeal. Often overlooked in favour of its larger neighbours, this small Channel Island quietly captures the heart of those who make the journey. It may be tiny, but its charm lingers long after you leave.

As the northernmost of the Channel Islands and the closest to the south coast of Great Britain, Alderney is surprisingly easy to reach. Direct flights from Southampton take just 40 minutes, while travelling via Guernsey adds a gentle island-hopping element. The final approach on Aurigny’s small Twin Otter aircraft is unforgettable, revealing turquoise seas, white beaches and rugged headlands below.

Life here moves at a gentler pace. With few cars and short distances, the island is best explored on foot or by bike. Days

unfold naturally – a walk along dramatic cliff paths, an afternoon on a quiet beach, and dinner enjoyed slowly as the sun sets over the sea. Despite being just eight miles from the French coast, Alderney remains refreshingly uncommercialised. Around 40 miles of footpaths cross the island, leading to sweeping viewpoints, sandy bays and encounters with remarkable wildlife. Internationally recognised for its birdlife, Alderney is home to extraordinary seabird colonies at Les Etacs and Burhou, where gannets and puffins gather in spectacular numbers. Dolphins and grey seals are often spotted in surrounding waters.

As night falls, the island reveals another rare luxury: truly dark skies. With little light pollution, stargazing is exceptional, with the Milky Way often stretching across the horizon.

History is woven throughout the landscape, from Neolithic dolmens and Roman remains to Napoleonic towers and Victorian forts. At the island’s heart lies St Anne, a charming town of cobbled streets, independent shops and welcoming cafés.

Dining celebrates fresh local produce, particularly seafood, served in relaxed restaurants and cosy pubs. Add boutique stays, coastal adventures and a lively events calendar, and Alderney offers the perfect balance of tranquillity and discovery.

Plan your island escape at visitalderney.com

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE

The finest independent schools in the UK

IMAGE: BROOMWOOD SCHOOL

A CONFIDENT START, A CONNECTED FUTURE:

The King’s Journey from 11+ to 18

At The King’s School Canterbury, education is not simply a sequence of stages, but a thoughtfully connected journey. From the early years through to sixth form, every step is designed to nurture confidence and curiosity.

Choosing to join Junior King’s in Year 7 allows pupils to experience the best of prep school life for two additional years, an invaluable period where creativity flourishes and children are given the space to explore who they are as learners. Small class sizes, specialist teaching, and exceptional facilities combine with a deeply rooted pastoral ethos to ensure that every child is supported and inspired, both academically and personally.

Learning at Junior King’s extends far beyond the classroom. Set within a beautiful and expansive site, the school provides an ideal environment for experiential learning, where pupils are encouraged to explore and grow in confidence. From outdoor education and a wide range of sports to music, drama and inter-house competitions, every child is given the opportunity to find their strengths and pursue their passions.

This richness of experience is complemented by flexible boarding options, including day, flexi and full boarding, which help to support families and ease each stage of a pupil’s journey through King’s and beyond. Junior King’s pupils take part in events and activities at the senior site, building familiarity and confidence long

before they move into Year 9.

As a result, progression to Senior King’s feels natural rather than transitional. Pupils arrive with a strong sense of belonging, already comfortable within the environment and ready to embrace new challenges. This connection is reinforced academically through a carefully aligned curriculum. Programmes such as Global Perspectives begin in Year 7 and continue into the senior years, encouraging pupils to think critically, engage with global issues, and develop the independence required for GCSEs, A Levels and life beyond school.

While the 11+ pathway offers a clear and connected route, King’s also prides itself on a vibrant 13+ intake. Pupils joining at this stage bring fresh perspectives, new friendships and an added dynamism that enriches the whole community.

Whether entering at 11+ or 13+, the King’s experience is defined by opportunity, continuity and care. Families are warmly invited to discover this for themselves at one of the school’s Open Mornings or through a personal visit, an ideal way to experience first-hand the spirit and breadth of opportunity that define a King’s education. kings-school.co.uk

PREPARING YOUNG PEOPLE FOR LIFE BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Education today is about far more than academic results alone. While strong examination outcomes remain important, there is growing recognition that young people must also be equipped with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in an increasingly complex and fast-changing world. Preparing students for life beyond the classroom has become a central focus of modern education.

Critical thinking is one of the most valuable skills students can develop. In a digital age where information is abundant, the ability to analyse, question and evaluate ideas is essential. Encouraging curiosity and independent thought helps young people become confident decisionmakers, capable of navigating challenges both in further education and in their future careers

“Critical thinking is one of the most valuable skills students can develop. In a digital age where information is abundant, the ability to analyse, question and evaluate ideas is essential”

Equally important is creativity. Whether expressed through the arts, problem-solving or innovation, creativity allows students to approach situations with flexibility and imagination. Education that values creative thinking alongside academic rigour fosters resilience and adaptability – qualities that are increasingly sought after in higher education and the workplace.

Communication and collaboration also play a vital role. Learning to articulate ideas clearly, listen to others and work effectively as part

of a team prepares students for realworld environments. These skills are developed not only through classroom discussion, but also through group projects, extracurricular activities and community engagement.

Wellbeing has become another key consideration in education. Supporting emotional resilience, self-confidence and balance enables students to perform at their best academically while maintaining a healthy relationship with learning.

Schools that prioritise wellbeing help young people develop coping strategies that will serve them long after formal education ends.

Finally, a broader perspective on global citizenship is essential, particularly in a diverse and international city like London. Exposure to different cultures, viewpoints and experiences encourages empathy, open-mindedness and a sense of responsibility beyond one’s immediate surroundings.

By combining academic excellence with personal development, modern education aims to nurture well-rounded individuals who are prepared not only for exams, but for life. In doing so, it empowers young people to step confidently into the future, ready to contribute positively to society and adapt to whatever challenges lie ahead.

FA SPORTING MINDSET

rom the Winter Olympics which kick-started the international sporting calendar, to the Rugby League World Cup in November, from the Women’s Six Nations in March, to the summer’s World Commonwealth Games, sportsmen and women of every discipline will be putting to the test years of commitment and challenge. How do they do it?

Harrow School has produced hundreds of professional sportsmen, including first-class cricketers, professional footballers and, for the past 15 years, at least one professional rugby player annually. This includes British and Irish Lions and England captain Maro Itoje, Billy Vunipola, Andrew Christie, Henry Arundell, Sam Winters, Kepu Tuipulotu and Sam Crean.

The School’s Master-in-Charge of Rugby, James Melville, shares his insights into developing a successful sporting mindset.

How would you define a ‘successful sporting mindset’ in the context of Harrow?

Character is the most important attribute a child can develop. At Harrow, we encourage boys from their first days in Year 9 to display the School Values – Fellowship, Humility, Courage and Honour – through all we do on and off the pitch. Pride in the Shirt helps boys understand the legacy of who has come before them and the privilege they have of representing the traditions held within the School. We encourage them to always ask ‘why’. To challenge us as coaches and be open to being coached. Winning is not the only goal, but it is a goal and we instil positive competition within the boys to thrive. Finally, Connection, Clarity and Confidence – always playing for each other, knowing your role and believing in yourself and others is vital to success.

The qualities children develop through exposure to sport and an inspirational coaching environment take them far beyond the sports field, from successful military careers to entrepreneurship. What qualities do you aim to develop in Harrovians through sport? Competence, Confidence, Character and Connection. We challenge ourselves to build resilience and confidence through wins and losses. We set clear standards of behaviour and expectations with clear ‘non-negotiables’ around effort, energy and punctuality. We emphasise team identity and shared values, conduct training sessions that are purposeful and our coaches model good values and look to build strong relationships with the players as young men, not just as sportsmen.

Competitive sport isn’t for everyone. How do you encourage confidence and sustained participation across all ability levels?

For me, it’s based on a bottom-up and top-down strategy. All the Year 9s play rugby. As a year group, they start together, mix up and will all play their first competitive fixtures for Harrow on the rugby pitch together, building that initial shared bond and School identity. From the top, we promote and celebrate the success of our A teams, particularly in recent years with two trips for the whole School to Twickenham to support the U18s in the Continental Tyres Schools Cup National Final. By instilling an initial framework of playing together and having the finished article as a source of pride at the top of the School and beyond, the goal is to inspire boys across all years to play their part.

How do you teach boys to deal with both success and failure and what lessons can be learned from losing, setbacks or mistakes?

We aim to play the toughest fixtures we can, against the best schools and we don’t shy

away from any competition – we learn from winning and losing as both happen in equal measure. The great quote is apt here: sport doesn’t build character, it reveals it. We learn lots about ourselves and each other in that process of losing and how we respond to it – it reveals if we’ve trusted the process of what we’re doing or not. If we trust the process and the outcome does not come, we can be proud regardless.

Why do you believe sport plays such a vital role in character development at Harrow?

Sport is a living, breathing, walking, talking expression of all that is good about Harrovians and the values of Harrow. Diverse groups brought together to pursue a common goal bound by a shared identity of tradition and driven by relationships. Competition teaches composure, resilience, the ability to look after one another during hardship and the key principles of routine, discipline and selfcontrol. It creates leaders, allows the shy to flourish and to give boys the best memories of connection and confidence.

“It was at Harrow that I developed the character, discipline, and drive for improvement that have stayed with me beyond the rugby pitch” – England Captain Maro Itoje

How do the skills and attitudes developed through sport transfer into academic work, leadership, and everyday life?

Character is the biggest one. Understanding values and their application at a human level. Sport exposes you and makes you vulnerable and teaches empathy. Work ethic and consistent training patterns have clear crossover to academic study. Communication, leadership, decisionmaking under pressure, and responsibility and accountability, are all experienced by Harrovians on the sports pitch.

Read about the School’s new Directors of Sport and Rugby.

FROM CLASSROOM TO CAREER:

AWHO GETS AHEAD?

cross many of Britain’s leading professions, people educated in the private sector continue to be overrepresented in senior and decisionmaking roles. Recent research and ongoing public debate suggest that, despite progress in widening participation, educational background remains a powerful factor in shaping career trajectories across public life, business and the professions.

“The higher echelons of journalism are also dominated by the private sector, with 51 per cent educated in independent schools”

This pattern is particularly visible in areas such as politics, the judiciary and the armed forces, where senior leadership roles are more commonly held by those who attended independent schools. Similar trends can be seen in medicine, the civil service and the media, where private and selective educational pathways continue to feature prominently among those at the top.

In the corporate sector, many leaders of major British companies progressed through fee-paying schools and highly selective universities. The creative industries also reflect this imbalance, with a significant number of successful actors and performers having come through independent education, prompting wider discussion about access, representation and opportunity.

Supporters of independent education argue that its influence extends beyond academic results. Greater emphasis on confidence, communication, leadership and extracurricular engagement can play an important role in preparing young people for competitive environments. Strong networks and exposure to wider opportunities are also often cited as contributing factors.

At the same time, educators and policymakers continue to question how these advantages can be more evenly distributed. Improving access to highquality teaching, enrichment activities and personal development opportunities across all school types remains a central challenge for the education system.

As conversations around social mobility and fairness continue, education remains at the heart of the debate. Understanding how different educational experiences shape outcomes is essential to creating a system that allows talent to flourish, regardless of background – and ensures that leadership across British society reflects the full breadth of ability within it.

BROOMWOOD ANNOUNCES PRE-SCHOOL EXPANSION FROM SEPTEMBER 2026

Clapham’s award-winning school celebrates exciting new plans

Broomwood, one of Clapham’s leading prep schools, is delighted to announce plans to expand its Pre-Prep with the opening of a third pre-school classroom from September 2026, marking an exciting new chapter for the school’s early years provision.

Responding to growing demand for places at Little Broomwood, the expansion will allow the school to welcome more families while maintaining the purposeful, tailored education and close-knit environment for which it is known.

wonderful news for Broomwood and for our wider community. The opening of this new classroom reflects both the strength of our early years provision and our commitment to meeting the needs of modern families. It allows us to continue delivering the exceptional, childled education that Broomwood has become known for, rooted in aspiration, a strong sense “We are thrilled to

be opening a third classroom as part of our pre-school provision”

Speaking about the development, Head of Pre-Prep, Caron Mackay, said: ‘We are thrilled to be opening a third classroom as part of our preschool provision. Interest in Little Broomwood continues to grow, and this new space will allow us to expand while preserving the highly personalised, purposeful education that underpins everything we do. The early years are such a vital stage, and we are proud to offer an environment where every child is known, supported and inspired.’

Broomwood’s Principal, Michael Hodge, added: ‘This is

of belonging, and the development of character.”

Thoughtfully designed to inspire curiosity, creativity and confidence, the new classroom will support children at the very start of their educational journey, combining a rich, play-based curriculum with specialist teaching and strong pastoral care.

The expansion comes at a particularly exciting time for Broomwood, which was recently included in Talk Education’s prestigious 250 guide, a recognition of schools that stand out for the all-round quality of their education.

The school’s Pre-Prep was also highly praised in its latest Independent Schools Inspectorate report, which highlighted the strength of its early years provision. Inspectors noted that: ‘In the early years, children develop confidence and independence in their learning as a result of an appropriate curriculum and effective teaching. Trained staff match resources and activities thoughtfully to children’s needs and interests.’

“The recognition also acknowledges the dedication of Broomwood’s staff, the enthusiasm of its pupils and the continued support of its parent community”

It added: ‘Children become articulate and confident communicators as they share their ideas in lessons, support and encourage each other and listen well to what each other has to say.

‘Staff in the early years help children to feel at ease and enjoy their activities. Children feel secure in their environment as a result of the caring relationships and positive attitudes modelled by staff.’

This latest development underscores Broomwood’s continued investment in its facilities and its commitment to delivering an outstanding early years’ experience, ensuring that children flourish academically, socially and emotionally from the very beginning.

The expansion builds on the school’s reputation for delivering a well-rounded education, where children are known as individuals and encouraged to explore, question and grow in confidence. With a rich curriculum, specialist teaching, and a strong pastoral foundation, the Pre-Prep provides an environment in which children flourish both inside and outside the classroom.

The news comes at an exciting time for Broomwood. The leading prep school has been named in Talk Education’s prestigious Top 250 Schools list.

This national recognition places Broomwood among a select group of

leading independent schools across the UK and highlights the school’s commitment to delivering a well-rounded, high-quality education. Talk Education’s Top 250 Schools are chosen following extensive research and evaluation, recognising not only academic achievement but also strength of ethos, leadership, pastoral care and the breadth of opportunities available to pupils.

The recognition also acknowledges the dedication of Broomwood’s staff, the enthusiasm of its pupils and the continued support of its parent community. The school looks forward to building on this success and continuing to provide an exceptional educational experience for every child.

Broomwood also operates a bus service across London, with routes serving areas including Pimlico, Wimbledon, Battersea and Tooting Bec, making the school accessible to families across the capital.

The main entry points to Broomwood are Pre-School, Reception, Year 3 and Year 7, although the school may have places available in other year groups.

For more information, please visit broomwood.com or contact their admissions team at admissions@broomwood.com

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS: Unlocking Student Potential

With options ranging from boarding schools to modern alternative curricula, there is almost certainly a school to suit each and every child. Here are some of the reasons why parents are choosing to give their children the unique experience of private school and why it’s worth the financial investment.

Enriched academic opportunities

One of the accepted benefits of private schools is that they provide exceptional and challenging educational experiences through extracurricular activities, Advanced Placement courses, and the International Baccalaureate programme, just to name a few. The IB programme focuses on school work and on developing you as a whole person. Private school students constantly score top marks on standardized tests and college entrance exams, and many schools have a 100 per cent rate of students attending their university of choice.

Controlled class sizes

A comprehensive study on class size made by educational researchers Bruce Biddler and David Berliner in 2002 showed that the smaller the class size, the better the average student performs on academic achievement tests. The gains from smaller class sizes are stronger the longer a child is exposed to them. Private schools vary greatly in size, but depending on their teaching

style, almost all focus on the importance of small class sizes to individually help students’ weak areas and advance their strengths.

Dedicated teachers

In a study completed by the Fraser Institute in 2007, 91 per cent of parents surveyed said the dedication of the teachers was their main reason for choosing private school. Instructors are both qualified and passionate about their subjects, often holding advanced degrees in their field. Within the tight-knit school community, students have close relationships with their teachers who commonly act as role models. In addition, small class sizes make staff members more readily available for extra help or to further challenge individual students.

Parental involvement

Private schools are built around open communication between parents and administration, and they make it a priority to involve parents in the community. From frequent parent-teacher meetings, social events such as parent breakfasts and family camping weekends, and the participation of parent committees in fundraising initiatives, families become an integral part of the child’s education. This common ground also helps strengthen parent-child relationships.

“At private schools, you’ll find incredible resources to support student learning in the classroom, sports field, art studio, and beyond”

A safe environment

Private schools have reputations for

maintaining high standards for discipline and respect. Lower staff-to-student ratios allow for more effective observation and control of school grounds. The strong sense of community found in private schools also discourages dangerous behaviour. In the Fraser Institute study, around 72 per cent of parents surveyed with children in the private school system strongly agreed that their school was safe, which greatly improves the quality of the child’s educational experience and achievement. The discipline they learn also improves their rates for success in post-secondary education when they are in control of their class attendance and achievement.

Ample resources

At private schools, you’ll find incredible resources to support student learning in the classroom, sports field, art studio, and beyond. Quality resources provide students with the opportunity to fully explore their interests and talents.

Extracurricular activities

While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts or clubs. This involvement helps stimulate students in their studies, as noted in a study at Stanford University that found that students involved in the arts are more motivated to learn and are three times more likely to win a school attendance award. Extracurricular activities can provide a much-needed break from the stresses of academics while developing skills and engaging in valuable social situations.

Development for today’s and tomorrow’s world

Private schools go beyond offering the mandatory subjects required by provincial curriculum; they can offer students a wide range of specializations including arts programs, athletics, maths and science. Private schools are responsible for producing many leaders in politics, business and society, with a history of adapting quickly to changes in technology and culture. And today, they are also sought by parents of children with special needs.

ALDENHAM: DISCOVER THE DIFFERENCE

Set in 110 acres of English countryside, just a short journey from the vibrant heart of London, Aldenham School offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation for children aged 3 to 18 years old, catering to both girls and boys, as well as boarding and day students. Here, young minds are nurtured in a setting that balances the calm of rural life with the cultural and academic dynamism of the capital.

Founded on centuries of academic excellence, Aldenham provides a rich and varied experience for students of all ages. From the earliest years, pupils benefit from small class sizes, dedicated staff, and an ethos that prioritises the development of the whole person – not just academic achievement. Whether at the start of their educational journey or preparing for university, every student receives the attention and support needed to thrive.

At Aldenham, learning extends far beyond the classroom. The school champions an allencompassing approach to education, placing equal emphasis on academics, arts, and sports. From high-level football squads with regular National Championship wins to professionalcalibre performances in music, drama, and the visual arts, Aldenham encourages every student to explore their passions and hone their talents.

Central to the Aldenham experience is a strong sense of community. Pupils are known and valued as individuals.

Relationships between staff and students, as well as among the students themselves, are characterised by mutual respect and a genuine care for one another.

“I am proud to be part of an organisation which has as its core purpose preparing young people to thrive in and give back to the world in which they live,” says Mrs. Hems, Head. “All of my experience – as a teacher first and then as a Head – has led me to believe that a child flourishes and succeeds at school when they are known and valued by the adults around them, and when they feel connected to students both older and younger than themselves.”

Academic excellence remains a cornerstone of Aldenham’s mission, but it is pursued in harmony with emotional wellbeing and personal growth. Pupils graduate not only with strong results but also with a sense of purpose, resilience, and a readiness to take on the world beyond school.

With a seamless blend of pastoral care, academic rigour, and an enviable location that allows students to take full advantage of London’s cultural offerings, Aldenham represents the very best of British independent education.

“I hope you will be able to discover the difference that an Aldenham education can bring,” says Mrs. Hems, “and I look forward to meeting you.” aldenham.com

FASHION & BEAUTY

Looking and feeling your best

IMAGE: OLIVER BONAS

Fashion & Beauty

“The Emerald Turquoise Lagoon collection catches the light and adds an opulent green and turquoise pool to any outfit”

INSPIRED BY NATURE

Sterling Silver jewellery handcrafted in our studio using ceramic, glass and finished with gold detailing. Inspired by the Devon coastline, the Emerald Turquoise Lagoon collection catches the light and adds an opulent green and turquoise pool to any outfit. Each piece reflects the shifting light and colours found all around us. Handmade in our studio on Dartmoor, every piece is completely unique. The hand-painted real gold lustre finishes these elegant and contemporary pieces. A thoughtful gift for her and a timeless statement to add to any jewellery collection. habulous.co.uk

VERY VINTAGE

These clip vintage earrings are from unused stock from the 1980’s with a shell/fan shape and are very Art Deco in style. Gold plated and very light to wear. They measure 3.5 cm. nataliawillmott.co.uk

MEDITERRANEAN VIBES

This Recycled Plastic Olive Tote Bag expands the Mediterranean story into a new format. The design features three embroidered olives on a stick, complemented by bold green and white stripes and contrasting red handles. talkingtables.co.uk

TOUCH OF ELEGANCE

Feel utterly elegant and sophisticated this spring courtesy of our silk-like floral scarf. Decorative floral illustrations in luxurious golf and cream shades are mirrored on both ends of the scarf. dentsgloves.com

LOVELY LEATHER

Compact and sophisticated, it combines elegance and practicality. Made of leather, it offers many storages, all highlighted by a lock bearing the initials of Gerard Darel in gold. gerarddarel.com/en-uk

WE LOVE

These Brown Tort Oversized Square Sunglasses. oliverbonas.com

FRAGRANCES TO TRY THIS MONTH

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1. Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Eau de Parfum

Discover five standout perfumes that add elegance, personality, and a touch of intrigue to any occasion.

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A modern classic floral bomb of jasmine, rose, freesia and patchouli that delivers a feminine, long-lasting scent with warm vanilla undertones. Its rich floral bouquet makes it ideal for both day and evening wear, striking a balance between romantic and confident.

2. Chloé Nomade Eau de Parfum

This woody-floral perfume blends mirabelle plum, freesia and oakmoss for an adventurous yet elegant scent profile. Designed for the free-spirited wearer, it transitions beautifully from daytime errands to dinner plans with its fresh-but-grounded character.

3. Maison Margiela Replica Jazz Club Eau de Toilette

A smoky, warm perfume capturing the vibe of an intimate jazz bar with rich notes of rum, tobacco leaf and vanilla. It’s sophisticated and sensual, perfect for evenings or cooler months when a deeper scent is desired.

4. Byredo Gypsy Water Eau de Parfum

A cult favourite woody-aromatic scent featuring bright citrus, juniper and warm amber-vanilla tones. Its versatile, comforting aura makes it great for daily wear or layering with other fragrances for personalised scent profiles.

5. Glossier You Eau de Parfum

A contemporary favourite celebrated for its skin-like warmth and subtle amber-cotton accord. Reformulated in 2026 with enhanced projection, it blurs into a scent that feels unique to each wearer, ideal for an understated yet memorable everyday perfume.

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Pack the Perfect Summer Capsule with Oliver Bonas

SUNSOAKED STYLE

Summer at Oliver Bonas is a celebration of colour and print, looking ahead to warmer days, sunny destinations and the joyful flurry of outdoor events and soirées.

This season marks a shift towards event styling, vacation dressing and playful holiday pieces, introducing an uplifting Mediterranean mood to the collections. Spring’s refined finishes and whimsical florals are joined by fruity motifs, postcard prints and bold style statements, all infused with Italian energy.

“The collections really capture the vibrancy of a Sicilian summer,” says Fashion Stylist Lynda Spence. “Think afternoon strolls through lemon groves, lazy lunches alfresco and catching up with friends over a limoncello.”

The result is a relaxed yet elevated warm-weather wardrobe built around confident co-ords, mix-and-match separates and distinctive occasion dresses, ideal for travel packing. T-shirts and tops bring a cheerful feel-good energy with marine-inspired prints, citrus tones and relaxed silhouettes designed for layering over swimwear or styling for sightseeing.

Lightweight shirts and blouses add refinement in breathable fabrics, with boxy cuts, V-necks and pops of citrus colour. Dresses

take centre stage, from midi to mini lengths in flowing silhouettes, statement prints and delicate details, suited to seaside dinners and golden-hour events.

Lightweight denim and wide-leg trousers offer laid-back structure, balancing bold prints and checks for day-to-night dressing. Shorts arrive in fresh cuts and colours, ideal for easy co-ords that capture beach-day energy. Co-ord sets allow effortless outfit building, with pieces designed to mix and match across a trip.

Soft skirts in pastel tones pair with tees and knits for easy coastal styling, while artisanal textures remain key throughout the season. Raffia, crochet and beaded finishes appear across beach totes, structured bags and accessories, adding texture and contrast.

Summer accessories include straw hats, hair scarves, sunglasses and woven headwear, delivering a holiday-ready feel. Footwear spans sandals, trainers and flats designed for sightseeing and beachside lunches.

Jewellery completes the collection with bold colour, sculptural shapes and waterproof finishes, from beaded earrings to pool-ready pieces that elevate simple holiday looks. oliverbonas.com

GLAM SQUARE SUNGLASSES

YELLOW GINGHAM SMOCK MIDI SKIRT

BROWN & ORANGE STRIPED STRAW BUCKET HAT

LIGHT BLUE CHAMBRAY WIDE LEG TROUSERS

RED GINGHAM POMEGRANATE SHIRT

DANNI SHELL CLUTCH

PINK AND RED STRIPE SEERSUCKER SHORT

TOFFEE BROWN SUEDE DOUBLE BUCKLE SANDALS

ERNEST DOE Supporting Country Life since 1898

For more than 125 years, Ernest Doe & Sons Ltd has been part of the fabric of rural Britain. While its heritage lies in agricultural engineering, today the business is equally recognised for its welcoming country stores, destinations that reflect the everyday realities of life in the British countryside.

Across 19 branches spanning the South East, East Anglia and South Lincolnshire, Ernest Doe offers a carefully curated retail experience built around quality, practicality and heritage. Each store is designed with country living in mind, providing customers with everything they need for work, leisure and the outdoors.

Clothing sits at the heart of the offer. From iconic Barbour wax jackets to dependable welly boots ready for muddy mornings, the ranges are selected for durability as much as style. Alongside trusted countrywear brands, customers will find footwear, outerwear and accessories suited to life outdoors, whether working in the field or enjoying time in the countryside.

Beyond clothing, Ernest Doe’s country stores provide a true one-stop shop for rural households. Gardening tools, pet supplies, equestrian essentials and seasonal products all sit alongside a wide range of practical everyday items, chosen because they work and built to last.

For those further afield, the same carefully selected range is available online at shop.ernestdoe.com, making it easy to access Ernest Doe’s trusted products wherever you are in the UK. Postal delivery is available on all clothing and footwear and customers can also take advantage of convenient Click & Collect across all 19 branches, combining the ease of online shopping with local service.

There’s a distinctly British character to the Ernest Doe experience, practical, dependable and quietly confident. From wax jackets to well-worn boots, it’s about products that stand the test of time.

From a blacksmith’s forge in 1898 to today’s modern retail network, Ernest Doe & Sons Ltd remains proud to support country life, an enduring part of Britain’s rural heritage. shop.ernestdoe.com

Shortlisted for Commercial Jewellery Designer of the Year 2026, Augustine Jewels presents the perfect Pink Topaz Cocktail Ring alongside the stunning Sky Blue Topaz and White Enamel Cocktail Ring, designed to make you sparkle this summer.

Inspired by the vibrant pink oleanders of the South of France, the Pink Topaz Cocktail Ring offers a fresh take on a timeless classic, featuring an eye-catching octagon-cut stone in a simple four-claw setting. The Sky Blue Topaz and White Enamel Cocktail Ring draws on the crisp beauty of Scandinavian snow and the glow of the Aurora Borealis, combining cool tones for an effortlessly elegant finish.

Available in sterling silver, gold vermeil and solid gold, each piece can be styled to suit your desired level of luxury. Shop Augustine Jewels in store at 75 Ledbury Road, Notting Hill W11 2AG or at 39 East 65th St, New York, NY 10065.

Browse online at www.augustinejewels.com with the code HOUSE10 for 10% off.

For any bespoke enquiries do reach out to Alexandra via her email alexandra@augstinejewels.com or via the shop on 020 3556 5780.

ILA FLEUR BY LIVVY:

Embracing the Art of Slow Perfume in Nature’s Embrace

n a world obsessed with instant gratification and massproduced luxury, La Fleur by Livvy offers a breath of fresh air or shall we say scents. This small independent perfumery nestled amidst the tranquil mountains of Colorado, redefining the essence of fragrance through a commitment to slow, artisanal craftsmanship. Their philosophy centers on creating luxurious, botanical perfumes in small batches that honor the beauty of nature and the art of natural perfumery.

At La Fleur by Livvy, every bottle tells a story rooted in sustainability, transparency, and respect for the environment. Natural Perfume “Jadon” earned them the prestigious New Luxury Award: Brand of the Year in 2023 by the International Perfume Foundation, Paris. This recognition affirms their commitment to creating authentic, plant-based fragrances that celebrate nature’s true essence.

For those who have become sensitive to synthetic perfumes or are seeking a “clean” aura, La Fleur by Livvy provides a safe, calming alternative. It is a return to authentic, slow perfumery, where the goal is to enhance, not overpower. As Olivia often shares, “Bring me flowers and talk for hours.” In

every bottle of La Fleur, she does exactly that, inviting us to stop, breathe, and connect with the beautiful, fleeting moments of life.

La Fleur by Livvy caught the attention of The Molly Brown House Museum in Denver who commissioned them to craft a custom fragrance called “Resilient,” inspired by the Titanic survivor the unsinkable Molly Brown.

LARSON, PERFUMER & BRAND OWNER

In a marketplace flooded with synthetic and fleeting trends, La Fleur by Livvy stands out as a beacon of authenticity and artistry. It is a brand that invites us to slow down, appreciate the beauty of natural ingredients, and indulge in fragrances that nourish both the senses and the soul. For those seeking a truly artisanal, sustainable, and luxurious perfume experience, La Fleur by Livvy offers a fragrant journey rooted in nature’s own artistry. Discover a range of perfumes designed within several collections; hopefully, you will find a few that resonate with you and you will enjoy wearing. lafleurbylivvy.com follow our socials at lafleurbylivvy.

OLIVIA

MV Skintherapy

Created by UK-born facialist Sharon McGlinchey, MV Skintherapy is an award-winning, Australian-made skincare brand born from a need to better care for sensitive, reactive skin. After years of treating complex skin conditions in the treatment room, Sharon began formulating her own products— pioneering the use of botanical ingredients in therapeutic concentrations to deliver results without compromising the skin’s integrity.

Drawing on over three decades of hands-on experience, her approach challenges the modern tendency to overcomplicate skincare. Instead, MV Skintherapy is built on the philosophy that skin thrives when treated with precision, restraint, and respect. Each formula is designed to support the skin’s natural function—calming inflammation, restoring balance, and strengthening resilience over time.

Artisanally crafted in Australia in small batches, every product blends potent plant actives with clinical insight to deliver visible, lasting results. Free from unnecessary additives and guided by a minimalist ethos, the range is suitable for all skin types, but particularly transformative for those experiencing sensitivity, reactivity, or imbalance. Now trusted by a global clientele—including well-known names in fashion, film, and wellness— MV Skintherapy has earned a reputation as a quietly effective alternative to conventional skincare. Its focus is not on trends, but on long-term skin health.

At its core, MV Skintherapy invites a more considered way of caring for the skin—one that moves beyond routine and into ritual. A moment of calm in an otherwise fast-paced world, where simplicity, expertise, and intention come together to create skin that feels as good as it looks.

mvskintherapy.co.uk

Blossom is blooming, the sun is shining

...IT’S TIME TO GET THAT GLOW UP!

Picnic baskets out, Ascot fascinators at the ready, Goodwood badges safely in the dresser drawer ready to dazzle in the sun. Summer has officially arrived. Barbours popped aside in hope those stormy clouds are a thing of the past.

Our outfits are hanging in the cupboard in anticipation of a fun, sun fuelled day at the races. So what other preparations are needed? Our faces of course!

Whether you’re ready to delve into the world of surgery or wanting a ‘refresher’ Mr Sadri is a must in your little black book. His precision and attention to detail is fast making him one of London’s most prominent surgeons.

His energy and honestly is admirable, and he is not interested in operating just for the sake of it. He takes real pride in his work. Whether it is an upper Blepharoplasty under local anaesthetic or a facelift, Mr Sadri knows all his patients and can tell you about any surgery he has performed.

Mr Sadri believes the only service patients should receive is a personal one. His secretary Lucy takes pride in getting to know every single one of his patients by name. She believes a personal and professional service is why patients choose Mr Sadri. It’s what they should expect and it is therefore what we aim to deliver.

Whether you’re getting married, want

“Whether you’re ready to delve into the world of surgery or wanting a ‘refresher’ Mr Sadri is a must in your little black book”

to feel younger and rejuvenated or just want to look sensational for summer Mr Sadri will guide you through your treatment, tweakment, surgery and beyond. Lucy states, the aftercare is as important as the surgery itself. Our patients are important to us, and our aim is to make them feel better about themselves.

So Stop for a moment and have a think... Do you want this summer to be your best yet? Imagine those compliments over a G &T at a drinks party in the garden after your “minor surgical adjustments”. The envy as those having seen you go back to their dressing tables and ponder in the mirror what they might look like with the same nip and tuck. You’ll be the belle of the ball.. and just remember big Sunnies are in this year so any slight bruising can be hidden with a new pair or Chanel sunnies. What is not to love about that? amirsadri.com

DR AMIR SADRI

WEBSITE: WWW.AMIRSADRI.COM EMAIL:INFO@AMIRSADRI.COM

SUMMER WEDDING SKIN: A Medical Timeline for Radiance Without Compromise

By Dr Gabriela Mercik, 56 Harley Street, London & Bahrain

Summer weddings place specific physiological demands on the skin. Heat, ultraviolet exposure and dehydration accelerate collagen degradation, impair barrier function and increase inflammatory activity. Combined with pre-wedding stress, this often results in fatigued, reactive skin. Optimal results are never last-minute. They are built through structured preparation.

6–12 months before the wedding, the focus is foundational. Check blood tests for vitamin deficiencies. This phase should include noninvasive, painless procedures such as Laser 6D® fat reduction, body shaping, fitness training, and comprehensive skin regeneration supported by Single Skin Serum and Hydramist for intensive hydration. Laser 6D® hair stimulation and thickening protocols may also be introduced. Stress reduction strategies, including yoga, meditation, breathing exercises and sleep optimisation, should begin early.

At this stage, patients are also introduced to internal support, including collagen peptides such as UNQ HydroCollGen, to improve skin elasticity, support gut health, enhance hair quality and maintain joint comfort.

Clinical protocols may include Laser 6D® skin rejuvenation, fat reduction and hair stimulation, supporting long-term, structured regeneration. Home routine correction is essential, including sleep quality optimisation and stress management.

3–4 months before, refinement becomes essential. Hydration and gut health are optimised. Anti-inflammatory nutrition, combined with continued collagen supplementation, stabilises internal physiology. Topically, Single Skin Magic Serum and Hydramist are introduced to improve tone, comfort and barrier function. Mesotherapy with hyaluronic acid, fillers and collagen stimulators may be considered where clinically appropriate.

6–8 weeks before, the objective is stabilisation. Skin clarity, hydration and energy must be maintained while minimising inflammatory triggers. Avoid fast food and ensure makeup is removed before sleep. Gentle, controlled treatments may continue if clinically indicated. Consistent use of Single Skin Care, including hydrating mists, serums and eye creams, supports the skin barrier and enhances the eye area.

3–4 weeks before, no new interventions should be introduced. Enzymatic peels or Laser 6D® cold peel may be performed to enhance glow for wedding photography. The focus remains on routine, predictability and preservation. In summer conditions, frequent micro-hydration with lightweight products is essential. Travel-sized Single Skin Care supports continuity during travel and is ideal for the honeymoon.

2 weeks before, everything should remain calm and familiar. Avoid experimental treatments, aggressive facials and extreme dieting. Maintain hydration. Shape your eyebrows, care for your hair and ensure your dress fits perfectly.

On the day, simplicity is key. Well-hydrated skin allows makeup to sit naturally and photograph beautifully. Eat breakfast, drink water, and remember to breathe and smile — it is your day.

A wedding is not only about the bride. The mother of the bride is equally visible. Due to age-related changes, she should begin preparation earlier. Dedicated mother-anddaughter programmes at Dr Gabriela Clinic ensure both follow personalised medical timelines.

The visible “glow” reflects hydration, hormonal balance, gut health and low inflammation. In summer, protecting collagen and maintaining hydration are essential. Do not forget sunglasses and a widebrim hat.

Beauty is health made visible. “Prepare early. Glow naturally. Arrive with confidence.”

drgabriela.co.uk

DR GABRIELA MERCIK

We combine traditional building skills, passed down through generations, with modern day techniques and materials to fulfil your lifestyle aspirations.

That’s why we make great buildings that stand the test of time. Buildings made for living. A place that people call home. Not just for now, but for generations to come.

HOME & GARDEN

A collection of the finest house and garden companies

IMAGE: CA’PIETRA

REWILDING THE LUXURY HOME

How BAYA uses nature as the antidote to predictable luxury.

Somewhere along the way, luxury interiors became strangely lifeless. Perfectly styled, impeccably finished, and emotionally flat. Spaces designed to impress on arrival, then say very little once you’re inside.

For years, luxury interiors have been about sharp lines, polished surfaces, rooms that look immaculate but feel inert. Nature, when invited in at all, has often been reduced to decoration - a vase of flowers, a leafy print, a plant in the corner performing wellness.

BAYA Interiors’ approach to design brings something far more powerful. Not nature as accessory, but nature as energy. A force that can shift mood, soften space, restore clarity and make a home feel instinctively good to be in.

The most luxurious homes today are not the most expensive-looking - they are the

ones that make you exhale the moment you walk through the door.

As Creative Director Karl Openshaw puts it: “The impact of botanical design goes far beyond aesthetics. Nature changes how we respond to a space. Organic forms, natural light, texture, movement - these things affect us immediately. You feel calmer, clearer,

“BAYA Interiors’ approach to design brings something far more powerful. Not nature as accessory, but nature as energy”

more grounded. That’s not styling. That’s human instinct.”

Across BAYA’s work, botanical influence is never literal or overly themed. It is distilled into atmosphere, rhythm and response. Colour palettes that shift with daylight. Curved forms that ease the rigidity of architecture. Natural materials that invite touch rather than admiration from afar. Spaces with pulse, not polish.

At Prince of Wales Drive, this plays out through a rich dialogue with the surrounding parkland. Earth-led tones, herringbone timber flooring and green glass accents draw the landscape inward. As sunlight moves across the apartment, surfaces flicker and change, giving the interior a sense of motion and mood. Outside, the terrace becomes an extension of that feelingrelaxed, tactile and immersed in green.

At Chelsea Waterfront, BAYA’s riverside penthouse takes its cues from the Thames itself. Deep blues, rich teals and soft sky tones create an interior that shifts with the day. Morning light energises. Evening light restores. The home moves with you, quietly supporting different moods without demanding attention.

At The Bryanston, Hyde Park, nature is interpreted with more precision. In the primary bedroom, a leaf-embossed metal headboard reworks the language of flora into something sharper and more contemporary - subtle, tactile and quietly grounding.

This is where interiors are heading. Away from static perfection. Away from rooms that look expensive but feel nothing. Toward spaces that restore, regulate and reconnect.

As Managing Director Philippa Simoson says: “When nature is embedded into a home from the

start, it changes the way you live in it. You feel calmer, more present, more at ease. That’s the difference between a room that looks good and a room that gives something back.”

Chelsea Flower Show is a cultural celebration of nature at its most joyful, expressive and transformative. Beyond the beauty of the blooms, it reminds us that colour, texture and seasonal change have a powerful effect on how we feel - lifting mood, restoring energy and inviting a deeper sense of calm.

That same philosophy is shaping the future of interiors. When homes draw on the richness of the natural world through palette, materiality and light, they become more than beautiful spaces. They become places that energise, soothe and reconnect us to ourselves.

A home in bloom is not simply inspired by nature. It is changed by it.

Bayainteriors.co.uk 0333 533 0850 info@bayainteriors.co.uk

Interiors { NEWS }

TIMELESS TEXTILE

At Ian Mankin, fabrics are created with timeless, authentic beauty that sidesteps fad and fashion. Every thread is carefully constructed and expertly woven using generations of craftsmanship, with no shortcuts and no compromise – fabrics that unapologetically take time. Pictured: Perth rich textured linen fabrics showcased in a studio setting with a day bed and scatter cushions. ianmankin.co.uk

AMERICAN INFLUENCE

Designed to celebrate texture and subtle grandeur, The Chicago Project brings our signature British hardware into a fresh and open American context. Showcasing the Greenwich Collection and Farnham Hooks. hendelandhendel.co.uk

Brown finish and Brass accents. The Brass upstand and angled legs complete the Mid-Century look, making this Cabinet ideal for Hosting in a Dining Room or Storage in a Living Room. swooneditions.com

SUNSET STRIPES

The HKliving Tulum candle is a cocktail of tingly spearmint and soft vanilla, invoking thoughts of beaches and sunshine. This invigorating blend has a rich decorative ceramic pot in browns and oranges. cultfurniture.com

wood wishbone dining chair with natural paper rope seat. Made in Scandinavian style. clickstyle.co.uk

NEW BUILDS | EXTENSIONS | REFURBISHMENT

Penn Developments Ltd. aims to provide a personalised, professional service to all clients, whether they are developing a large housing project, an extension to their own home, or a refurbishment of an existing home.

Penn developments, Lilliput, Poole, Dorset 07894 904646

www.penndevelopments.co.uk enquiries@penndevelopments.co.uk

WAYS TO SLEEP STYLISHLY

If the living room is considered the heart of the home, then surely the bedroom is the mind — tailored to your most intimate needs and personal style. While most rooms serve the entire household, this one is just for you. Anatomical analogies aside, it’s one of our firm beliefs that the bedroom deserves a near-cellular (last one, I promise) level of attention. Beyond personal aesthetics, it is also likely the most health-oriented room you occupy; your space to rest, relax, and repair is of paramount importance to your life, both inside and beyond your home.

While it’s all well and good to encourage you to follow your personal passions, some styles are so timeless that we find ourselves returning to them again and again. With that in mind, we’ve pieced together a selection of ideas to inspire

you—whether you’re a curator of mid-century design or prefer a contemporary zen. Here are five ways to build the modern bedroom.

THE ROYAL APARTMENTS:

Let’s start with something that reaches further back on the design timeline than the rest. Defined by its richly detailed interiors from ornate furniture to wall panelling and floor-to-ceiling bookcases, the Georgian look is steeped in grandeur. And if you happen to have a four-poster bed lying around, you’re already well on your way to turning your future bedroom into a refined nod to the past. Heritage brands have drawn on this aesthetic for decades, using it as a marker of opulence and a tribute to the early forefathers of modern design. Putting a contemporary spin on this age-old style, you see, is much easier than you might think.

The 1700s were, if nothing else, somewhat synonymous with vanity. People took immense pride in their appearance, and with that demand came a solution: the vanity table. On the flip side, however, as the world became increasingly globalised, another piece of furniture—one that, ironically, divided—began to gain popularity. Room dividers offered an added sense of privacy, even within the most intimate settings.

TECHNICOLOUR DREAMS:

A little further along in the history of the home—but a history lesson all the same. Mid-century design (the 20th, for those keeping score) is the era that largely shaped the furniture landscape we know today. A kind of mini renaissance for anyone who sees a Kubrick scene wherever they go and dreams in Technicolour. And speaking of dreams, where better to have yours than surrounded by the unmistakable vision of 1960s style? It’s a melting pot of rich woods, bold colours, and functional furniture, an aesthetic that has resurfaced time and again since it first graced our homes some 70 years ago.

If you want your sleep space to channel this trend, our recommendation is to build from the ground up—literally. Start with a statement mid-century rug, then choose a bed with the largest, most practically designed headboard you can find. The look can be finished with one of the era’s many iconic lounge chairs for good measure - look to names like Vitra or Knoll for inspiration - the result is the perfect cocktail of retro and modern.

A WILD NIGHT:

As previously mentioned, no room is more yours than the bedroom, so bold statements of self-expression are almost the default when it comes to your chambre à coucher. But what about those of you who want to ensure your space has no quiet characters? Try a statement mirror that reflects your personality as much as your outfits, a bed worthy of your dreams, and wallpaper from LondonArt bold enough to breathe new life into the phrase, “if these walls could talk.”

As always with the eclectic look, the core concept revolves entirely around placing the unique memories and ideas that define you, wherever you choose. It’s about hitting the unmute button on your design story and embracing the beauty of organised chaos. The pieces above serve as a guide, a starting point for building a more daring, expressive aesthetic.

SLEEPING SCANDI:

Life can ask a lot of us. Which is why some of us crave a space where responsibilities fade, and the visual bombardment of city

life disappears with them. A place where the overhead light is used for no more than the five seconds it takes to find the switch for your lamps. A bedroom designed with this mindset can be uniquely beneficial, its calming nature offering a space to close your eyes, before you close your eyes.

To achieve this deeply relaxing breath of fresh air, follow the minimalist mantra of “less is more,” both in quantity and colour palette. Opt for softly-shaded wooden side tables from Audo Copenhagen, pair them with quietly luxurious lamps from Nuura, and gently layer the space around a welcoming bed.

BEDROOM OF TOMORROW, TODAY:

Sleep has become its own health culture in recent years, a shift only amplified by the meteoric rise of technology. We track our rest through apps, invest in mattresses that memorise our sleeping positions, and increasingly these innovations are reflected in the furniture we use across the modern bedroom. So what’s on offer to help you make the leap into the future as you fall into bed?

You’ll find this approach integrated into Lema’s fitted furniture range, with its wardrobe sanitising systems, Clei’s award-winning multi-functional furniture solutions, and, of course, the precision engineering behind Interlübke’s exceptional storage options. This is less about aesthetics and more about modernising the way you use one of the most health-centric rooms in the home. chaplins.co.uk

DESIGNING WITH CONSCIOUSNESS:

Aprielle Chung’s Holistic Approach to Architecture

An Interview with the Founder of Atelier April Architects

What motivated you to start your own practice, and how do you approach the design process?

I started my own firm to approach architecture from a broader perspective. I am interested not only in the physical and material aspects of design but also in the mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions that shape how people experience space. Our work aims to cultivate higher consciousness and awareness, and to improve users’ well-being. Every project begins with empathy and a deep understanding of the user, rather than a fixed signature style. Because each site and client is different, we develop a unique methodology for every project to shape the user’s sensory and perceptual experience.

comes from my mother, who often took me to museums and galleries, explained artworks to me, and taught me how to draw and paint. Her influence led me to win many art competition awards as a child.

I’ve heard that your mother is a descendant of King Sejong the Great. How did your background and upbringing shape your path in architecture?

I grew up in an egalitarian household, so we never considered our background as special. Even so, King Sejong’s spirit of broad talent, innovation, and humanitarian values is reflected in my mother’s side of the family. That environment helped me become well-rounded, versatile, and inventive, which has supported my career across many project types in both design and technical areas. My artistic eye also

Did your parents support you in becoming an architect or an interior designer?

My parents did not want me to pursue architecture, but I followed my own calling. I made that decision at thirteen and never looked back. To this day, nothing excites me more than architecture.

Where do you find inspiration?

I often draw inspiration from my dreams, where they appear as images, sounds, or words. After that initial spark, I develop them through both empirical and experimental exploration. However, sometimes inspiration is less about receiving something new from the outside and more about seeing what already exists from a different perspective. No matter how unfavorable the conditions are, talented people have the power to turn them into gold.

atelierapril.com

info@atelierapril.com

Outdoor Living

LUXURY LIVING OUTDOORS

OKA is a love affair with living well. Since the beginning, they’ve been focused on creating things that make time spent with loved ones more special, and that passion continues today. Started with three women bringing truly unique designs from the East to interiors-lovers in the West. Lady Annabel Astor, and friends Sue Jones and Lucinda Waterhouse. Together, they created an emporium of characterful and elegant home designs from around the globe that celebrate effortless and timeless British style. oka.com

SPOT OF SHADE

The limited edition ‘Pavilion’ collection from Staycation Vintage Parasols, draws inspiration from sun-dappled architectural courtyards and softly faded European terraces, where muted pastel tones glow in the warmth of late afternoon light. staycationvintageparasols.com

LUXURY LOUNGING

Our throws are produced using recycled thread, creating a unique colour palette for each batch, with slight variations in colour. Each throw is handwoven and may vary slightly in size, but we believe these imperfections add to their charm. nataliawillmott.co.uk

ADD SOME LIGHT

With an attractive matt black finish and ‘antique’ textured glass, the NORFOLK Down Outdoor Wall Light would happily grace the entrance of any traditional property. darlighting.co.uk

COSY COCOON

Transform your outdoor space into a serene retreat with the Icaria Single Hanging Chair. The perfect blend of comfort, craftsmanship, and timeless design, this outdoor chair is woven from durable, weather-resistant rattan, hanging gracefully from a sturdy, iron frame that ensures both strength and stability. coxandcox.co.uk

THE NEW LUXURY AT HOME:

WHY WELLNESS SPACES ARE BECOMING ESSENTIAL IN MODERN LIVING

Luxury living has evolved far beyond beautiful kitchens, statement lighting and landscaped gardens. Today, the most desirable homes are designed not only to impress visually, but to support the way we live, recover and feel. Across the UK, particularly in Greater London and the Home Counties, homeowners are increasingly embracing a new kind of aspiration: wellness integrated seamlessly into everyday life.

What was once associated with exclusive spa retreats, private members clubs and elite sporting facilities has now entered the home. Saunas, cold therapy and dedicated recovery spaces are no longer considered indulgent extras, but meaningful lifestyle investments that combine wellbeing with exceptional design.

The rise of wellness focused interiors reflects a wider cultural shift. High performance routines adopted by athletes, entrepreneurs and celebrities have become increasingly influential, with heat and cold therapy now recognised for their ability to support recovery, reduce stress, improve sleep and create moments of calm within demanding lifestyles. In an age where time is considered the ultimate luxury, the ability to experience these rituals at home has become particularly appealing.

At the same time, homeowners are becoming more intentional about how they use their spaces. Garden rooms are evolving into wellness retreats, unused indoor areas are being transformed into spa environments, and contemporary homes are being designed with

wellbeing at the centre from the very beginning.

This is where Auroom Wellness has established itself as a defining name within luxury home wellness design.

Known for its beautifully crafted modular sauna collections, Auroom creates elegant wellness solutions that blend sophisticated aesthetics with authentic sauna experiences. Rather than viewing wellness products as purely functional additions, the brand approaches them as architectural elements designed to enhance the atmosphere and value of a home.

With eight modular sauna collections available, Auroom offers

exceptional flexibility for homeowners seeking tailored solutions. Whether integrated into a refined indoor spa suite, positioned beside a swimming pool, or placed within a landscaped garden setting, each sauna is designed to feel considered, seamless and timeless.

The appeal lies not only in performance, but in the elevated design language behind every collection. Warm natural materials, clean lines and carefully balanced proportions allow each sauna to complement contemporary and traditional homes alike. The result feels less like a wellness installation and more like an extension of the home’s interior architecture.

Among the latest introductions is Aurea, Auroom’s newest sauna model and a striking reflection of the growing demand for refined wellness spaces. Designed with an understated elegance, Aurea combines calming textures, ambient detailing and a distinctly modern atmosphere to create an immersive retreat within the home. It represents a move towards wellness spaces that prioritise both emotional experience and visual harmony.

Alongside Aurea, the Mira collection continues to be one of Auroom’s most sought after outdoor sauna models. Its versatility and timeless design have made it especially popular among homeowners looking for a luxurious yet adaptable wellness solution. Designed for outdoor living, Mira integrates seamlessly into landscaped gardens, poolside environments and contemporary backyard retreats, demonstrating how wellness architecture can feel sophisticated without appearing overly clinical or trend driven.

As the conversation around recovery continues to evolve, cold therapy is becoming an equally important part of the modern wellness lifestyle. Once reserved primarily for professional sports environments, ice baths are now finding their place within luxury residential settings as homeowners seek the restorative benefits of contrast therapy.

Recognising this shift, Auroom is now opening pre bookings for the highly anticipated VelEira ice bath. Designed to complement the brand’s sauna

ranges, VelEira introduces a beautifully considered approach to cold immersion at home. Combined with sauna use, the experience mirrors the recovery rituals adopted by elite athletes and high performers around the world, bringing those practices into an accessible and design conscious residential setting.

This growing connection between performance recovery and luxury wellness was further highlighted earlier this year through Auroom’s collaboration with Brentford Football Club during a wellness focused event hosted at the club’s stadium. The partnership reflected how deeply integrated recovery culture has become across both professional sport and modern lifestyle aspirations.

For homeowners in London and beyond, the appeal is clear. Wellness spaces are no longer separate from luxury living; they are becoming central to it. The modern home is expected to provide restoration as much as entertainment, creating environments where people can disconnect, recharge and invest in their long-term wellbeing.

Auroom’s collections answer this demand with a rare balance of craftsmanship, design and wellness expertise. Whether creating a private spa sanctuary indoors or a striking outdoor retreat, the brand offers solutions for every taste, space and lifestyle vision.

As homes continue to evolve, one thing is certain: true luxury is no longer simply about what we own, but how we live. And increasingly, that means bringing the experience of recovery, renewal and wellbeing home.

info@auroomwellness.com

FRIARS CLIFF APARTMENT:

ONE RESOLVED COASTAL HOME

What began as two front doors is now one calm coastal residence, organised around light, movement and daily life by the sea.

At Friars Cliff on the Dorset coast, Dream Design re-planned two apartments into a single, dual-aspect home. The scope was comprehensive: spatial planning, structural reconfiguration and interior specification, developed as one coherent scheme rather than a room-by-room set of decisions.

The defining move was structural. By removing the wall between kitchen and living areas, the team formed one unified volume that holds cooking, dining and relaxing within a clear plan. Circulation was re-set to feel intuitive, and sightlines were composed from each approach, ensuring the kitchen reads as ordered from the entrance, the dining table and the seating area. Dual-aspect glazing brings the outlook into the room.

Material continuity does much of the quiet work. A whitewashed, ash wood-effect porcelain floor runs through the main living level, tying the open-plan space together while providing a hard-wearing base suited to coastal use. The palette stays restrained, allowing proportion and daylight to lead. Lighting is layered for everyday living, balancing task clarity with softer ambient levels that settle the space in the evening. Finishes were selected for practicality as well as presence.

The kitchen cabinetry was specified in a custom NCS blue, bringing depth without visual noise. Porcelain surfaces hold light and remain practical in daily use, with marble-effect porcelain carefully set out across the hob wall and window surrounds. Light grey stone-effect porcelain continues across the island fronts and worktop, keeping the centre of the room quietly composed.

SieMatic was selected for its ability to carry an open-plan room without dominating it. In SLX, the architecture is expressed through precise lines, disciplined junctions and finish quality that remains consistent at close range.

Dream Design’s approach is rooted in coherence. As the team put it, “Excellence is a lot of small things done well.” With full design freedom from the clients, each decision was tested against the whole, from first layout studies to final on-site detailing. See more at dreamdesign.co.uk

We have introduced our own finishing line and specialise in staircase cladding inc. spindles and handrail to match the floors

www.decor-lighting.co.uk

hello@decor-lighting.co.uk

0191 482 4443 - Option 2

Decor Lighting is a UK-based, family-owned lighting and interiors specialist with over 40 years of experience in the industry, offering a carefully curated range of high-quality lighting, furniture, and home accessories. The company blends timeless design with modern style, providing everything from statement chandeliers and elegant table lamps to outdoor lighting and décor accents. With a strong focus on craftsmanship, value, and customer service, Decor Lighting sources products from leading global brands to suit a variety of tastes and spaces. Whether updating a single room or transforming an entire home, their collection is designed to bring warmth, character, and sophistication to everyday living.

A DESIGN MASTERPIECE

The final legacy of legendary British architect Sir James Stirling

AZ Real Estate and Sotheby’s International Realty are pleased to launch an exceptional, 3-bed duplex penthouse of rare quality, occupying the uppermost floors of iconic Stirling Square in the heart of St James’s, priced at £13.9mn.

The home is located just off the Mall in one of London’s finest buildings, the final legacy of legendary British architect Sir James Stirling. Stirling Square is a celebration of Stirling’s life and unique approach to architecture - a visionary who strived to be different and came to be known as a “rebellion against conformity”.

Situated on the sixth and seventh floors, the penthouse has been the subject of a meticulous, no-expense-spared refurbishment by globally renowned Nuhu Developments, resulting in a turnkey residence of exemplary craftsmanship and finish.

The property houses a beautiful collection of furniture by revered American designer Kelly Wearstler and artwork by acclaimed 20th century artist André Lanskoy, which is available by separate negotiation.

In addition to exceptional indoor space, there is an expansive roof terrace, providing an open-air living space with elegant lounging and dining area, perfect for savouring long, sunlit summer evenings in refined comfort, as well as entertaining. At ground level there is also a communal residents garden.

Alisa Zotimova, founder and CEO of AZ Real Estate, commented: “This showstopping penthouse at 5 Carlton Gardens is an extraordinarily rare offering, not only for its prime position and quality, but for its architectural pedigree. As Sir James Stirling’s final residential legacy, this beautifully reimagined duplex honours that spirit with exceptional craftsmanship and design intelligence, carefully crafted by Nuhu which has delivered some of the world’s best living environments.

“Opportunities to acquire a home of this calibre, combining historic significance with world-class contemporary living in the very heart of St James’s, are exceptionally few and far between.”

Additionally, the building provides secure underground parking, a dedicated 24-hour concierge and security service, and comprehensive CCTV surveillance throughout, discreetly monitored around the clock for complete peace of mind.

Positioned between The Mall and Pall Mall, Carlton Gardens is one of central London’s most discreet and sought-after addresses, just moments away from St James’s Park via the steps of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Memorial. Within immediate reach of Mayfair, the area offers an unparalleled concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants, private members’ clubs, galleries, and luxury boutiques.

On the market for £13.9mn. Please contact AZ Real Estate on 020 3871 4074.

Setting the standard in the design and development of beautiful new homes!

THE NEW STATEMENT ENTRANCE:

WHY FRONT DOORS ARE TAKING CENTRE STAGE

In London’s evolving architectural landscape - from contemporary townhouses to reimagined period homesthe entrance is becoming far more than a point of access. It is now a defining feature, setting the tone for the entire property.

At Inspiration Doors, we believe a front door should do more than complement a home - it should define it. It is the first impression, the focal point, and increasingly, a reflection of the people who live behind it.

This shift is being driven by a growing desire for individuality. Homeowners are moving away from standardised designs and looking instead for something that feels personal and considered. The entrance has become an opportunity to create a statement - not just in scale, but in character.

Oversized pivot doors, minimal detailing, and integrated glazing are now central to modern design. But it is material that truly sets these entrances apart. Finishes such as oxidised metal and patina bronze introduce depth, texture, and subtle variation that cannot be replicated. These are not static surfaces - they respond to light, environment, and time.

The result is something genuinely unique. No two doors are ever

the same - no one else in the world will have a door like it.

Of course, this level of design must be matched by performance. In a city environment, security, thermal efficiency, and durability are essential. The challenge lies in delivering this without compromising on aesthetics - ensuring that the door performs as beautifully as it looks.

As architecture continues to evolve, the entrance is no longer an afterthought. It is a statement of intent - a balance of design, craftsmanship, and individuality.

At Inspiration Doors, that philosophy is at the core of everything we create: doors that are not just seen, but remembered. Visit inspirationdoors.co.uk Email hello@inspirationdoors.co.uk

Award-Winning Bathroom Design at THE BATH WORKS POOLE

The Bath Works is delighted to announce that its Poole showroom has been awarded the prestigious “Bathroom of the Year” title at the national KBB Awards, one of the UK bathroom industry’s most respected accolades. The award recognises excellence in bathroom design, innovation, and customer experience, placing The Bath Works amongst the country’s leading specialists in luxury bathroom interiors.

The ceremony took place on 2nd March at the Hilton Metropole in Birmingham, bringing together some of the most influential names in kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom design from across the UK. Winning this highly sought-after award reflects the creativity, expertise, and dedication that have become synonymous with The Bath Works brand.

Kate Ware, Sales & Marketing Director at The Bath Works, said:

“We are incredibly proud to receive this recognition. Winning Bathroom of the Year is a testament to the passion and hard work of our entire team, who consistently go above and beyond to deliver exceptional spaces for our clients. It is especially rewarding to represent Poole on a national stage and showcase the quality and innovation our showroom offers.”

Renowned for its inspiring displays, personalised service, and

carefully curated collections, the Poole showroom has become a destination for homeowners, interior enthusiasts, and property developers looking to create beautifully designed bathrooms tailored to modern lifestyles. From contemporary spa-inspired spaces to timeless classic designs, The Bath Works combines expert guidance with premium products to help clients bring their vision to life.

This latest achievement further reinforces the company’s commitment to delivering outstanding quality, craftsmanship, and customer care. Visitors to the showroom can expect a welcoming environment where experienced designers work closely with clients to create bespoke solutions that balance style, practicality, and luxury.

Whether you are planning a full renovation, building a new home, or simply searching for inspiration, The Bath Works invites readers to experience its award-winning showroom in Poole and discover why it has been recognised as one of the very best in the industry. For more information, visit thebathworks.co.uk or follow @thebathworksshowrooms on Instagram

CA’ PIETRA INTRODUCES ENSO

THE TACTILE LIMESTONE MOSAIC BRINGING A SOFTER, MORE SOULFUL MOOD TO INTERIORS

As interiors move towards spaces that feel warmer, quieter and richer in texture, Ca’ Pietra’s new Enso collection arrives at exactly the right moment. Crafted from tumbled limestone and shaped with a softly undulating surface, Enso is a mosaic designed to be experienced as much through atmosphere and touch as through pattern, bringing a more organic, gently time-worn finish to the home.

Inspired by the look of crystal-clear streams flowing over pebbles, Enso has a beautifully dappled surface that shifts with the light, giving walls and floors a sense of movement without ever feeling busy. It is this subtle play of texture, alongside the honesty of natural limestone, that makes the collection feel so relevant now, when the most inviting interiors are moving away from flatter, sharper finishes and towards materials that bring depth, softness and a more grounding kind of beauty.

Named after the Zen Buddhist concept of Ensō, which speaks to wholeness through imperfection, the collection carries that idea into the home in a way that feels elegant rather than literal. There is a calmness to it, though not a cold one. Instead, Enso has the kind of tactile character that makes a room feel settled and enveloping, whether it is used to line a shower, wrap a cloakroom in texture or bring a more sculptural finish to a kitchen wall.

The collection is available in a series of mosaic designs that each bring their own expression of the stone’s surface. Cube offers a neat, architectural feel, Strip gives a more elongated linearity, Organic Basketweave introduces a looser decorative note, while Sand & Chalk Chess taps into the growing appetite for tonal checkerboard effects that feel softened, nuanced and quietly playful rather than graphic. That softer approach to pattern is very much where interiors are heading, especially in bathrooms, utility spaces and characterful kitchens, where smaller-scale tile layouts are being used to add charm without overwhelming a scheme.

Colourways span Chalk, Sand and Charcoal, which means Enso can move easily between the pale, chalky palettes that are shaping restful, monastic-inspired interiors and the deeper, moodier spaces that rely on texture rather than shine for their drama. Used in lighter tones, it brings a lovely mineral softness that sits naturally with plaster, oak and brushed brass. In Charcoal, it becomes more cocooning and architectural, particularly when lit well, with the surface catching light across every gentle rise and dip. Ca’ Pietra recommends lighting the mosaics for the best effect, allowing that organic texture to come fully into view.

Grazzie Wilson, Head of Creative at Ca’ Pietra says: “With Enso, we wanted to create something that felt instinctive and deeply tactile, a surface with softness, movement and a natural ease to it. There is a real appetite now for rooms that feel more enveloping and more atmospheric, and Enso answers that beautifully through limestone, light and texture. It has detail, though it never feels overworked, which is what gives it such lasting appeal.”

Suitable for interior floors, interior walls and exterior walls, Enso has the versatility to move across the home while keeping that same tactile identity intact. It is a collection that feels trend-aware, though not trend-bound, which is always where Ca’ Pietra is at its strongest: taking what people are leaning towards in interiors and translating it into surfaces with permanence, beauty and depth. capietra.com

“Used in lighter tones, it brings a lovely mineral softness that sits naturally with plaster, oak and brushed brass”

Effortless living, thoughtfully designed

Ifounded STUDIOeed over a decade ago, shaped by a career in hospitality design and a deep appreciation for how thoughtfully designed spaces can transform the way we experience them. My early years designing bars and restaurants led me through senior roles, and ultimately to HBA Singapore, one of the world’s leading hospitality design studios where I worked on luxury hotels across the globe.

“External spaces are considered from the outset, creating a seamless relationship between architecture, interiors and landscape”

Designing exceptional hospitality spaces wasn’t simply my profession; it defined my perspective and laid the foundation for what I set out to create within my own studio.

In 2020, that trajectory shifted. Amid a personal home renovation, young family life and a global pause on hospitality, everything changed almost overnight. Projects disappeared, along with the path I had carefully built. It was a defining moment - one that invited me to pause and reconsider not just what I designed, but why. What

emerged wasn’t something I had fully planned, but it now feels entirely right.

Today, STUDIOeed is a residential architecture and interior design studio, grounded in the same principles that shaped my work in hospitality: clarity of concept, attention to detail and an unwavering focus on how a space feels, flows and functions day to day, as much as its aesthetic.

I take a highly considered, collaborative approach, working closely with my clients to understand how they truly live. Rather than creating a blank canvas to be filled, I design homes around their routines, their belongings and the needs of family life. Particular emphasis is placed on space planning - ensuring each home flows effortlessly before any visual layers are introduced. External spaces are considered from the outset, creating a seamless relationship between architecture, interiors and landscape. From bespoke lighting to tailored joinery, it is often the quieter, unseen details that define how a space is experienced. When designed from the inside out, a home becomes not only beautiful, but intuitive and effortless to live in.

Looking back, the move into residential design was not expected, but it has allowed me to create homes that balance the considered elegance of hospitality with the warmth and individuality of private living. studioeed.co.uk

Blue & White Company is an elegant colour company inspired by the marriage of blue and white, with a passion for blue and its many hues.

Offering a unique collection of homeware accessories and gifts, we provide a refreshing twist on a much-loved colour combination. Quality and practicality remain a key focus for each of our bespoke designs.

Our best selling and classically inspired contemporary nightwear collection is created with the softest cotton and embroidery. This collection is now accompanied by our gorgeous embroidered mini hot water bottles, perfect for travel, house guests and soothing comfort.

Blue has a rich artistic heritage that we love to share - come and join us as we explore its history in art via our monthly online Journal at www.blueandwhitecompany.com

“A certain blue enters your soul.” Henri Matisse

BROADVIEW SHADING SOLUTIONS

Broadview Shading Solutions in Poole are the Souths leading outdoor living go to company for louvred roof pergolas, awnings, exterior roller screens by Brustor and now also designer style and fixed shelters sometime used as car ports.

Their approach to design, supply and installation from the ground up has earnt them an “Excellent” Trustpilot rating and they are the number one dealer for the Belgium based manufacturer Brustor - the world leader in sun, shade and shelter systems.

The Brustor range is impressive with just about every option of outdoor living catered for. Fully enclosed systems that open at the touch of a button can really add additional space to homes and businesses with the inclusion of options such as heaters, LED lighting, speakers, sliding glass, integrated electric roller screens or even sliding wooden louvred panels. Broadview have everything you could need.

Or perhaps it is a stylish and functional patio awning for those unpredictable weather days? Whether you desire hot, cold, rain or shine, they have fully enclosed awnings as well. With integrated lighting for those evening get togethers or just for shade & shelter whilst being outside when you can’t rely on the British weather and

the family or friends are all coming over. And did we mention these can be solar powered too?

Brustors attention to design and technology means that the system can be controlled via an app on your smartphone or if you wish, simple remote controls. You can even talk to them via Alexa for example.

The fixed roof shelters are also used for outdoor living - ideal where there may be large trees, or can be used as carports with built in lighting. Everything is made and installed with bespoke design to the highest quality standards to suit the space both aesthetically and dimensionally.

Broadviews installation team of professionals are Somfy trained in motor controls and attend the Brustor Academy of certified partners so you can be sure your investment is installed and commissioned by the best.

To start your project, have a no obligation free consultation with them over a coffee at yours or come and visit their Poole Showrooms and see the displays.

Email: sales@broadview.co.uk Tel: 01202 679012

Whatsapp: 07872 835930 Web: patioandgardenshading.co.uk

CREATING THE ULTIMATE BEDROOM SANCTUARY:

The Rise of Modern Dressing Rooms

As home owners…. dressing room design is evolving to prioritise innovation, personalisation and understated luxury. What was once purely a functional storage decision has now become the focal point in a modern bedroom. Below are some of the leading design trends and guide to creating the ultimate dressing room.

Clever Technology – Reflex Glass fronted wardrobes.

One trend that has steadily gained momentum is our Reflex glass-fronted wardrobes. The sleek, modern aesthetic can serve as a focal point in bedroom decor. Glass-fronted wardrobes offer an opportunity to highlight your fashion sense and organizational skills. From neatly arranged clothing to curated displays of accessories, these closets invite inhabitants to exhibit their personal style. At Neatsmith growing numbers of customers are opting for innovative Reflex glass doors which become transparent when backlit by internal LED lighting but remain reflective and semi opaque when the inside of the wardrobe is unlit. This infusion warm light through glass creates a welcoming ambiance and sense of unrivalled style. Unlike traditional solid-door wardrobes, glassfronted wardrobes provide clear visibility of the contents inside. Plus, because glass has a reflective quality that can make a room appear larger and brighter by bouncing light around the space. In smaller rooms or apartments, glass-fronted wardrobes can create the illusion of more space, making the area feel open and airy.

Texture and colour.

The beauty of bespoke fitted furniture lies in its ability to be tailored entirely to you. Neatsmith’s rattan collection is the perfect example.

Lacquered hinged doors can be colourmatched to any shade, while the rattan panels introduce a sense of warmth and texture to the space.

Colour, of course, is a deeply personal choice. While every Neatsmith door can be customised to your exact preference, there is also a considered library of signature shades to explore. Reflecting growing demand for softer, more expressive interiors, Spring 2026 sees the introduction of a new pink shaker door a response to the rising popularity of this colourway.

Lighting.

Lighting is integral to the design process, and the best designs include integrated lighting positioned at the front of the wardrobe to properly illuminate clothes. Neatsmith suggest opting for warm lighting that replicates natural daylight. When designing a dressing room, it’s important to think about lighting and light-reflecting surfaces to make a windowless or smaller room come to life, making it a beautiful place to spend time in. neatsmith.co.uk